(September 11, 2008) – At a press conference in Ottowa, Transport Minister Lawrence Cannon announced the passage of a passenger’s bill of rights program, nicknamed “Flight Rights.” The Canadian government is the first airline in North America to execute a passengers’ bill of rights.

Canada’s bill of rights is even more comprehensive than the European Union regulations and specifically addresses “strandings,” which will allow passengers to deplane after a 90-minute tarmac delay with the option of re-boarding.

Under the new law, Canadian airlines will also be required to provide stranded travelers with updated flight delay and schedule change information, along with meal vouchers for delays of four hours and hotel vouchers for delays of eight hours or more.

The bill received unanimous support in the House of Commons.