Every airline ticket is a contract — one that most passengers agree to without fully understanding the legal implications. Airlines rely on “terms and conditions of carriage” to define their responsibilities, and these documents are often the subject of legal scrutiny.
Terms of Carriage
These terms define what happens in cases of delay, cancellation, baggage loss, and passenger misconduct. Courts often uphold these terms — as long as they are clearly communicated and not unfair or deceptive.
Force Majeure Clauses
Airlines frequently include clauses to limit liability during events beyond their control (e.g., weather, pandemics, air traffic strikes). However, courts in some jurisdictions have challenged how broadly these clauses can be interpreted.
Refund and Rebooking Policies
Misleading Pricing and Advertising
Legal action has been taken against airlines for “drip pricing” — advertising low fares that don’t include mandatory fees or taxes. Consumer protection laws now require more transparent fare structures.
Conclusion
Airline contracts may be standardized, but that doesn’t make them immune to legal challenge. Passengers and regulators are increasingly holding carriers accountable for unclear or unfair terms.