U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg responded to comments from the heads of two major carriers, expressing his stance on regulatory oversight in the airline industry.
During a news conference on Nov. 21, Buttigieg emphasized that airline CEOs should prioritize passenger welfare over concerns about regulations. This was seen as a direct response to Delta Air Lines Inc. CEO Ed Bastian, who had expressed hopes for a less stringent regulatory environment under the incoming administration.
Bastian had stated that he believed the new administration would bring a “breath of fresh air” by reevaluating existing regulations and reducing government overreach within the industry. His sentiments were echoed by Southwest Airlines Co. CEO Robert Jordan, who also anticipated a more business-friendly approach from the new administration.
Buttigieg defended the Department of Transportation’s policy changes under his leadership, emphasizing their popularity among travelers. He highlighted the recent regulations requiring airlines to issue cash refunds for flight delays and disclose fees more transparently, which he said had bipartisan support.
The transportation secretary also mentioned that both Delta and Southwest had faced investigations or enforcement actions from the DOT, underscoring the importance of ensuring passenger rights and industry accountability.
Looking ahead, Buttigieg acknowledged the nomination of former Congressman Sean Duffy as the secretary of transportation under the previous administration, emphasizing a commitment to aviation safety and efficiency.
At Delta’s investor day, Bastian shared positive performance metrics for the airline, including high on-time rates and projected cash flow figures. Meanwhile, Southwest reported a decrease in net income for the same period compared to the previous year.
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