Gate Access
Happy Labor Day, Travel Friend! Imagine you’re mid-flight, with your laptop set up on the tray table, ready to get some work done or relax with a movie. Suddenly, the person in the seat in front of you reclines without warning, and in an instant, your laptop is crushed under the force. This scenario actually happened to a travel writer on a Delta Air Lines flight, and Delta did not take liability for the damage. Let’s get into it!
This Monday’s edition:
What You Need to Know About Airline Liability for Carry-On Damage
The Quick List (Essential Travel News & Updates in Under 3 Sentences)
Checkpoint: 60 Tips Passengers Should Know When Going Through TSA Screening. Read Full E-Guide Now.
What You Need to Know About Airline Liability for Carry-On Damage
Unfortunately, most airlines are not responsible for damage to your carry-on bags or their contents. After reviewing the terms and conditions of major airlines, it’s clear that they all explicitly state they aren’t liable for carry-on baggage damage, except in cases where negligence can be proven. For instance, Delta’s policy specifies that they’re generally not responsible for wear and tear, such as scratches or broken zippers, unless negligence by the airline can be demonstrated. Similarly, Frontier Airlines echoes this sentiment by excluding liability for damage resulting from normal handling or shifting items during flight.
Even in cases where the design of the seating or overhead bins might have contributed to damage, that typically doesn’t qualify as negligence in the eyes of the airline. To hold an airline liable, the damage must directly result from the actions of a crew member. JetBlue Airways further clarifies that they assume no liability for personal property carried on board unless they are directly responsible, which is also the stance taken by Southwest Airlines, who explicitly excludes liability for fragile or improperly packed items.
This is also why crew members rarely assist with loading your bags into the overhead bins, as their involvement could inadvertently increase the airline’s liability risk. Spirit Airlines and United Airlines also limit their responsibility, emphasizing that liability only arises from direct negligence by the airline.
As a team carry-on traveler myself, it’s crucial to understand that the liability for carry-on items differs significantly from that of checked luggage. While checked luggage is covered under specific liability limits, carry-on items are largely the passenger’s responsibility.
The Quick List
Essential Travel News & Updates in Under 3 Sentences.
Government
The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) announced that the year-to-date flight cancellation rate for 2024 is 1.6%, remaining below 2022 and pre-pandemic levels despite significant disruptions, including the global CrowdStrike outage and summer storms. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasized the legal responsibilities of airlines to passengers during flight disruptions, highlighting the need for clear communication about refunds, automatic cash refunds for cancellations or significant changes, and easy access to rebooking, meals, and accommodations. Since the Biden-Harris Administration took office, the USDOT has secured nearly $4 billion in refunds for passengers, issued $170 million in penalties for consumer protection violations, and implemented new rules to protect passengers from surprise fees and ensure prompt refunds, though some of these measures are currently being challenged in court by major airlines.
Airport
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is constructing a new terminal 6 as part of a $4.2 billion project, with plans to open the first five gates by 2026 and complete the 10-gate, 1.2 million-square-foot facility by 2028. The terminal will feature modern technology like self-check-in, streamlined security, and digital concierge services. This project is part of a larger $19 billion overhaul, including a new terminal 1 and an expanded terminal 4, with the new terminal 1 expected to be twice the size of the current terminals 1 and 2.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) has begun a $2.6 billion modernization project for terminal 3, primarily used for domestic flights, with completion expected by fall 2027. The renovation includes 650,000 square feet of upgrades, 200,000 square feet of new space, automated bag drop stations, new security checkpoints, and a six-story building for airline lounges and offices set to open in 2028.
A San Francisco-based tech company, Glydways, is set to introduce its fleet of driverless pods, known as Glydcars, to Atlanta as part of a pilot program aimed at enhancing transportation options around Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The pods will connect the airport’s SkyTrain to the Georgia International Convention Center in College Park, filling gaps in the current transit network, particularly benefiting airport workers who struggle with long commutes and limited public transportation options. This pilot, expected to be operational by fall 2026, will involve up to 10 Glydcars traveling on a 0.49-mile dedicated route, offering on-demand, private rides at speeds up to 30 mph.
Gate Access E-Guide
Read the first official Gate Access e-guide! Checkpoint: 60 Tips Passengers Should Know When Going Through TSA Screening. I discovered these tips during my time at TSA, and I’ve broken them down into bite-sized chunks for you to refer to when needed. Check it out now! You can also ask for additional tips regarding this topic, and I’ll add those tips to the downloadable version when it’s ready.
Gate Access Rewind
Visit The Lounge
The Lounge is your go-to spot for all things Gate Access. It includes all previous stories, tips, deals, and reliable travel information published by Gate Access.