U.S. to 'beat up' airlines when necessary for passengers, transportation secretary says

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said he is willing to take a hard line with airlines when necessary as the Biden administration vows a sweeping upgrade in passenger consumer protections.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said he is willing to take a hard line with airlines when necessary as the Biden administration vows a sweeping upgrade in passenger consumer protections.

“We’re continuing to work to make sure that airlines live up to their obligations, which we will enforce,” Buttigieg told Reuters in a wide-ranging interview on Thursday.

U.S. airlines have sparred with the administration in recent years over responsibility for flight delays, passenger rights, landing slots and other issues. Carriers and a federal audit say the Federal Aviation Administration must boost air traffic control staffing.

Buttigieg has opened numerous investigations and imposed fines for carrier misbehavior. President Joe Biden has often criticized airlines, saying in February “airlines can’t treat your child like a piece of baggage.”

While Buttigieg works with airlines when possible, he added: “We’re going to beat ‘em up when we think that’s important to get passengers a better deal.”