The Labour party has announced a new policy to force airlines to show real prices up front.<\/p>\n
The policy would also require airlines to provide automatic refunds when flights are cancelled or significantly changed.<\/p>\n
“Flying is expensive, and on many regional routes there is little or no competition,” Labour leader Chris Hipkins said.<\/p>\n
“Kiwis are struggling with the cost of living and are finding it harder and harder to make those important trips. Only Labour has a real plan to tackle it across the economy.”<\/p>\n
The policy would require airlines to show real-time airfares so customers can compare the true cost of flights.<\/p>\n
Compensation or reimbursement would be given to flyers when checked baggage is significantly delayed or paid services aren’t delivered.<\/p>\n
Labour commerce and consumer affairs spokesperson Arena Williams said, “When an airline screws up, passengers shouldn’t have to fight to get their money back. If your flight is cancelled or significantly changed, you’ll get an automatic refund.”<\/p>\n
The party said it would open the skies to more competition, by offering fair access to airport infrastructure so smaller airlines can compete.<\/p>\n
Williams said there was limited competition for regional routes, leaving less choices for travellers and less pressure on airlines to offer better prices.<\/p>\n
“Smaller airlines shouldn’t have to compete with one hand tied behind their backs. Labour will give them fair access to the airport facilities they need to grow and connect regional New Zealand.”<\/p>\n