New rules on the protection of air passengers come into force on Thursday

New rules on the protection of air passengers come into force today.

The update comes as the Canadian Transportation Agency tries to close a loophole that left some passengers unable to secure cash refunds after pandemic-related flight cancellations.

Starting Thursday, airlines will be required to issue full refunds for cancellations and delays if passengers are not placed on a new flight within 48 hours, including for reasons beyond the airline’s control.

Previously, passenger rights only required reimbursement for flight disruptions that were within the airline’s control, excluding situations ranging from weather to war to unplanned mechanical problems.

In addition to a cash refund, the fare can also be refunded through credit or vouchers and must be paid in full by the airline within 30 days.

The original air passenger protection regulations were established in 2019, before demand for air travel collapsed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This report from The Canadian Press was first published on September 8, 2022.