Despite this recommendation, the Transportation Secretary did not follow through on it. Therefore, it is Khanna’s view that had Buttigieg agreed to implement the aforementioned penalties and fees, Southwest’s ongoing problems would not exist today.
Other progressives have opined that what’s happenign with Southwest Airlines speaks to “incompetence.”
Likewise, the Southwest CEO is being called upon to face the music for problems with his airline that surpass other carriers.
Many Democratic figures believe the Department of Transportation should penalize him for the chaos that travelers and airline workers are enduring.
Reaction from the Transportation Department
Amid rising backlash, the Department of Transportation remains adamant about the work it’s doing. In a statement via a spokesperson, the Transportation Department claimed it has issued historic consumer protection fines to help folks in need.
Furthermore, the department maintains that Buttigieg pushed for airlines to offer better customer service when flight delays and cancellations impact travelers’ plans.
