From Washington: A new federal rule reclassifies certain airline delays as outside of airlines' control. This change may affect whether travelers receive compensation for significant delays or cancellations. Currently, major airlines provide compensation when delays are deemed within their control. The new rule lists ten items that will not be considered under the control of airlines, including unscheduled maintenance.

Air travel consumer advocacy groups have expressed concerns about the change, citing increasing wait times at US airports. They note that issues like tarmac delays have been rising over the past year, amid high consumer demand for air travel.

Further details about the new rule and its potential impact on air travelers are available from the source. The Department of Transportation waived the public comment period before enacting the rule.