We all want every flight we take to go smoothly, but sooner or later something’s bound to go wrong. A delayed flight, misplaced luggage, or you’re bumped off a flight.
When a problem comes up, try to remain calm and work for an immediate resolution. If that’s not going to happen, write down details to help you file a complaint later.
AirSafe.com has tips for filing a complaint against an airline.
Figuring out where to file your complaint can be a challenge. Here’s a listing of federal agencies that take complaints on airlines.
Airline service complaints
You can file complaints about airline service with federal Department of Transportation’s Aviation Consumer Protection Division. You can call, write, or use the Web form. This DOT division doesn’t take complaints on safety or security issues.
Airline safety complaints
If you have concerns about airline safety, call the Federal Aviation Administration at 1-866-835-5322. For additional information, go to http://www.faa.gov/passengers/travel_problems/consumer_hotline/.
Airline security complaints
If you have complaints about aviation security, call the Transportation Security Administration at 1-866-289-9673, or e-mail that agency at TSA-ContactCenter@dhs.gov . For additional information, go to http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/customer/index.shtm.
Airline disability and discrimination complaints
If your complaint concerns accessibility problems experienced because you have a disability, or you experienced discrimination, click on this link to find out which of six federal agencies will take your complaint.
What’s known about traveling in the U.S. in 2007 as the result of complaints filed with federal agencies?
U.S. airlines experienced a lower rate of on-time flights and more reports of mishandled baggage last year than in 2006, and passengers filed more complaints with the government about airline service than they did the previous year, according to DOT’s Air Travel Consumer Report issued Feb. 5, 2008.
As for which airline is on top in the number of consumer complaints for 2006, it’s United Airlines, while it’s Southwest Airlines with the least complaints. See “Taking Airline Complaints to the Government” in the Wall Street Journal, March 27, 2007.
