Steve Cohen: “Since the beginning of the pandemic, we have seen a spike in the number of mass flight cancellations and significant…”

“Since the beginning of the pandemic, we have seen a spike in the number of mass flight cancellations and significant delay events. Some of these events were not completely attributable to the airlines. The acceleration of the number of worker retirements during the height of the pandemic affected every industry's workforce, and many of the airlines were understandably not prepared for the massive increase in air travel demand as the effects of the pandemic started to dissipate. This led to the rise in significant delays and cancellations that have affected passengers over the last several years. This also underscores the importance of the Department of Transportation accurately reporting the on-time performance of flight delays and cancellations so consumers will have a full and accurate picture of what to expect when traveling. Unfortunately, this amendment would restrict airline service quality performance reporting by removing a host of critical reporting elements. For example, the amendment would remove airlines' requirements to report delays due to vendor computer outages, including cybersecurity attacks. I know I would like that to continue to be reported, and I assume most of my colleagues would, as well. This amendment would also remove airlines' requirements to report delays due to crew availability related to hours flown, rest periods, and on-duty times not caused by a carrier.…”