WASHINGTON- A passenger has officially requested that the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) stop the codeshare agreement between American Airlines (AA) and Qatar Airways (QR).
The case accuses Qatar Airways of fraudulent and unfair acts following a disputed seat selection charge on a codeshare ticket, raising concerns about consumer rights in airline partnerships.
Background of the Complaint
The incident occurred in May 2024, when the traveler booked a Qatar Airways ticket through American Airlines with AAdvantage miles and cash. According to the DOT complaint, the ticket was for the complainant’s child, and they were able to select seats on Qatar Airways’ website at no extra cost.
The Doha-based carrier confirmed the seat selection in writing and delivered a boarding card prior to the trip.
However, on the day of travel, Qatar Airways allegedly refused to fulfill the confirmed tickets unless an additional price of €150 ($156 at the time) was paid. The airline also declined to check the passenger’s baggage until the price was paid.
Qatar Airways and American Airlines Codeshare Violations
Following this odd experience, the passenger claimed that Qatar Airways’ conduct violated both international airline standards and United States regulations, which prevent carriers from raising costs after purchase or participating in deceptive tactics.
Citing the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) definition of a boarding card, the complainant claimed that the given boarding permits indicated the traveler’s right to board the flight and sit in the pre-assigned seats.
“Qatar Airways’ refusal to honor its boarding passes and imposition of unexpected charges constitutes an unfair and deceptive trade practice harmful to consumers,” according to the suit.
Disputed Charges and Time Lost
At the check-in counter, the traveler produced proof that the seat option was free. However, Qatar Airways employees, including a manager, demanded on payment.
Although the cost was subsequently decreased to €51.95 ($54.09), the complaint had to execute the payment at a different counter, resulting in severe delays.
“In total, Qatar Airways’ actions consumed 43 minutes of my time and resulted in an unjustified payment,” according to the customer.
Request for DOT Action
The complainant has urged the DOT to take decisive action, including:
- Suspending Qatar Airways’ codeshare authority with U.S. carriers.
- Revoking American Airlines’ exemption for its codeshare agreements with Qatar Airways.
The petition claims that these actions are required to ensure compliance with US consumer protection laws and deter unfair tactics in international airline agreements.
“Suspending Qatar Airways’ codeshare authority provides a strong incentive for both carriers to comply with U.S. regulations while encouraging American Airlines to monitor its partnerships more diligently,” the complainant stated.
Broader Complications
This incident exposes possible hazards in codeshare partnerships, as passengers frequently encounter difficulties due to varying policies between partner airlines.
This case highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in codeshare operations, especially when consumer rights are at risk. As of now, the DOT has not responded to the complaint or launched an inquiry.
FAQ
Why was there a request to suspend the codeshare agreement between American Airlines and Qatar Airways?
The request to suspend the codeshare agreement was driven by concerns related to competition and market fairness, particularly in the context of government subsidies for Gulf carriers.
What is a codeshare agreement?
A codeshare agreement allows two or more airlines to share the same flight, offering passengers greater connectivity and convenience by combining networks.
Has the codeshare suspension request been approved?
As of now, the suspension request is under review, and there has been no official confirmation of whether it will be enacted.
How does a suspension of codeshare affect passengers?
A suspension of codeshare agreements may lead to fewer available routes, reduced convenience, and potentially higher fares for passengers traveling between the U.S. and the Middle East.
What impact could this have on American Airlines and Qatar Airways?
If the codeshare agreement is suspended, it could reduce the network reach for both airlines, affecting their ability to offer seamless connectivity to passengers.
