DOT Sues Southwest Airlines Over Delayed Flights

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has filed a lawsuit against Southwest Airlines, alleging the carrier operated chronically delayed flights that disrupted passenger travel. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg stated that airlines must provide realistic flight schedules, and the lawsuit targets two specific routes that saw 180 delays over five months in 2022. Southwest Airlines responded with disappointment, emphasizing their long-term operational record and claiming that the issues stem from flights over two years ago. This legal action is part of a broader enforcement effort by the Biden administration, which has also fined Frontier Airlines $650,000 for similar chronic delays. The DOT is seeking maximum civil penalties to enforce passenger protections and ensure compliance within the airline industry. The case highlights ongoing concerns about consumer rights and airline accountability.