From Washington: A new federal rule may impact airline passengers' ability to receive compensation for certain delays. The rule reclassifies several types of delays as outside of airlines' control. Currently, airlines provide compensation for significant delays or cancellations 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 noted an increase in delays, such as tarmac delays, over the past twelve months. Further details about the new rule and its potential effects on air travelers are available from the source.

The change was enacted without a public comment period.