Complaints Against Airlines Drop During Economic Slump
Friday, October 9th, 2009
While the economic slump continues to take its toll on the airlines, it may prevent some benefits to the average business or leisure traveler. In addition to catching some reduced fares and cheap flight packages through the major airlines, travelers are enjoying a higher level of customer service, according to several recent reports. According to a recent report by the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, reports of mishandled baggage dropped by nearly 1 claim per 1,000 passengers in the busiest vacation month this summer when compared to the same period last year.
Overall, the number of complaints regarding lost or damaged baggage, oversold flights and missing flights has dropped significantly over the past year, and experts say that this is because airlines have been able to spend more time and resources on improving their customer service, and because there are simply fewer passengers to manage.
Airlines have also found it easier to stay on schedule, with more flights arriving and departing on time, and fewer complaints about late flights overall. Since fewer flights are departing and arriving at some of the country’s major airports, it’s become easier for pilots to fly into their scheduled airport on time, and for baggage handlers to dispatch baggage in a timely manner.
Airports are following suit by offering special incentives and offers at the terminal. Recently, Bob Hope Airport in Burbank started offering airport employees and passengers on-site flu and pneumonia shots. The vaccinations are available at the OnSite Wellness Services of Torrance in Terminal A, making it easier for passengers and employees to take care of their health when they’re on the go.
Slower passenger traffic at airport ticket counters, restaurants and news stands may also mean better customer service for some travelers because employees have fewer customers to deal with each hour.
Source: LATimes.com
