Technology Can’t Fix Delays…Can Legislation?

LiveWire Test Labs created technology that could detect faulty wiring on commercial aircraft and AirCell is offering a broadband Internet connection to fliers everywhere but it has taken years for anyone to do absolutely anything about one of the worst parts of flying (frequent business travelers can empathize) - ground delays.  A bill is currently making it’s way through the House and Senate that would allow passengers to deplane if their flight is delayed on the tarmac.  Just last week the Senate voted in favor of the legislation, stating that airlines should allow passengers off planes that are delayed three hours or more.

According to Today in the Sky, nearly 200,000 passengers on domestic flights have been stuck on roughly 3,000 planes for more than three hours.  Not surprisingly, airlines say the delays are often the result of bad weather.  What are your thoughts on the legislation?  Advantageous and fair for fliers or will it make delays even worse?