The Tribune

By FAY SIMMONS

Tribune Business Reporter

jsimmons@tribunemedia.net

A Cabinet minister has signalled the Government’s support for stronger passenger protections, arguing that airlines should have clearer obligations to assist travellers and address complaints when disruptions occur for reasons within their control.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s (ICAO) Legal Advisers Forum, Jobeth Coleby-Davis, minister of energy, utilities and aviation, said passenger rights deservd greater attention as governments and aviation stakeholders work to modernise the industry's legal and regulatory framework.

“I believe there is a need for stronger and clearly-defined regulations to ensure airlines consistently uphold transparency, provide assistance and address passenger grievances effectively,” she said.

Mrs Coleby-Davis, while acknowledging that airlines should not be blamed for every disruption, said carriers nevertheless have a responsibility to care for passengers when problems arise from circumstances they can control.

“While it is unfair to hold airlines accountable for delays related to air traffic control or poor weather that may cause flight disruptions and cancellations, the right to care where circumstances are within an airline's control must be given greater focus and attention,” said Mrs Coleby-Davis.

Her comments come as passenger rights and airline accountability have become increasingly prominent issues globally, with regulators in several jurisdictions strengthening rules governing compensation, customer communication and assistance during flight delays and cancellations.

Mrs Coleby-Davis’s remarks were made during a wider address focused on the future of international civil aviation and the role of legal and regulatory systems in maintaining public confidence in the sector.

She argued that the aviation industry must continue evolving to address emerging challenges ranging from cyber security threats to environmental concerns and rapidly-advancing technologies.

“One message has remained consistent. The future of aviation cannot be built on outdated systems or fragmented approaches. It must be built on modern legal frameworks, resilient institutions and meaningful collaboration among states and stakeholders,” said Mrs Coleby-Davis.

She stressed that aviation remains particularly important to The Bahamas because of the country's geography and dependence on air connectivity.

“As an archipelagic nation, aviation is essential to our economic development, our tourism industry, our emergency response capability and the daily connection of our island people. Aviation is not optional for us; it is fundamental,” she said.

Mrs Coleby-Davis also sought to reassure industry stakeholders that the Government views strong regulation as essential to long-term growth rather than an obstacle to expansion.

“I want the aviation community, both here in The Bahamas and internationally, to know that this government recognises the critical importance of a safe, secure, sustainable and well-regulated aviation system. We understand that strong oversight is not a barrier to growth; it is the foundation of public confidence and long-term success,” the minister said.

She added that international co-operation will be increasingly important as aviation regulators confront issues that transcend national borders.

“In today's environment, collaboration is no longer simply beneficial; it is necessary. No state can address modern aviation challenges alone. Cyber security threats do not respect borders. Environmental concerns affect all nations. Emerging technologies are advancing faster than many legal systems can adapt,” Mrs Coleby-Davis said.

She said conferences such as the ICAO Legal Advisers Forum help countries build relationships, share expertise and develop common solutions to challenges facing the global aviation industry.