Quantcast

Frank Lorenzo criticizes Biden administration's aviation regulations

Frank Lorenzo criticizes Biden administration's aviation regulations
Research
Webp p18pueyozwbyaegyt1fzg7i1qaau
View from the Wing | View from the Wing

Frank Lorenzo, a notable figure in the airline industry, has authored a book set for release next week. The book details his acquisition of Continental and Eastern Airlines, his sale of the Eastern Airlines Shuttle to Donald Trump, and his eventual disqualification by the Department of Transportation (DOT) from running an airline.

In a recent op-ed in the Wall Street Journal, Lorenzo argues that current DOT regulations under the Biden administration are undermining the benefits of deregulation. He claims these regulations have made air travel more accessible with lower fares and increased flights but contends that airlines face stricter rules compared to other industries.

Lorenzo highlights specific DOT requirements for airlines to disclose fees for bags, flight changes, and cancellations on initial fare quote webpages. This rule was blocked by an appeals court in July as it exceeded the department's statutory authority. He questions whether similar requirements should apply to other retailers like Amazon.

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

The Airline Deregulation Act pre-empts state regulation and common law contract claims against airlines. As such, DOT is responsible for setting and enforcing standards due to this federal oversight. Lorenzo criticizes some aspects of recent DOT fee regulations but suggests focusing on more relevant consumer information like inflight wifi quality or meal availability.

He also points out other costly regulations faced by airlines but notes that eliminating regulation without addressing liability protections is not a solution. He argues that government control over airports, security, air traffic control, slot controls, and domestic ownership rules contributes to inefficiencies and higher costs in the airline industry.

Lorenzo calls for revisiting certain features of the Deregulation Act and reducing government-imposed distortions that negatively impact air travel. He cites examples like Legend Airlines being regulated into bankruptcy to protect incumbent carriers as evidence of bureaucratic protectionism stifling competition.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

London Heathrow, recognized as Europe's busiest airport, will soon experience an increase in its flight offerings by Oman Air.

Sep 2, 2025

Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport will commence safety and airfield improvement projects on Runway 12R-30L in two distinct phases throughout 2025.

Aug 22, 2025

Delta Air Lines is adjusting its service between Atlanta and Anchorage, extending flights beyond the summer travel season to a year-round offering.

May 15, 2025

Emirates is set to enhance its fleet by introducing retrofitted Airbus A380 aircraft on routes to Manchester and Milan.

Apr 16, 2025

Five airlines operate between the United States and Europe with only one route each.

Apr 16, 2025

A Frontier Airlines flight from Denver to Memphis was forced to return to its departure city on April 8 after a passenger attempted to open an exit door mid-flight.

Apr 16, 2025