Air passenger rights law overturned

The Second U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has overturned New York’s Passenger Bill of Rights law, according to the Associated Press. The law had “required airlines to provide food, water, clean toilets, and fresh air” to passengers held on delayed planes at the gate or on the tarmac.

The law was repealed on the grounds that “only the federal government has the authority to enact such a regulation.”

Certain company-wide passenger bills of rights, such as JetBlue’s policy, still are in effect (although it now seems a mere formality without the protection of law). In short, this is a victory for the airlines, not their customers. If you’re flying soon and expect delays on your route, plan accordingly with extra snacks, beverages, and entertaining diversions.