Airlines are raising concerns about the potential impact of aviation reforms on ticket prices, warning that the proposed changes could be 'unworkable' and lead to increased costs for passengers. The industry group A4ANZ has criticized the government's aviation consumer protections, arguing that the reforms are overly complex and could result in higher prices. The proposed framework aims to establish minimum service standards and remedies for late and cancelled flights, but it overlaps with existing consumer law, causing confusion. Graeme Samuel, the chairman of A4ANZ, expressed his concerns, stating that the regulations are 'unworkable' and could lead to a new agency duplicating the role of the ACCC. The government's Aviation White Paper, released in 2024, sparked consumer anger over post-COVID airline service levels. While the reforms aim to complement existing Australian Consumer Law and provide clearer rights for passengers, there are concerns about the creation of another regulator and the potential for inadequate consumer protection in a market dominated by two airline companies. The debate continues as stakeholders weigh in on the proposed changes, with some questioning the effectiveness of the reforms in driving behavior change at domestic airlines.
