Airport Director Named to National Committee
Mario Rodriguez says
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe executive director of the Indianapolis Airport Authority has been named a member of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Advisory Committee for Aviation Consumer Protection. Mario Rodriguez says his selection puts Indianapolis at the "big table" to discuss how to make air travel easier and more transparent for consumers.
Rodriguez joins other new members selected to the committee, including David Berg from Airlines for America, Charlie Leocha of Travelers United and New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu, who will serve as chair of the committee. He says his track record of improving customer service led to his appointment and cited the Indy Airport’s recent string of consumer awards as evidence.
"It’s all about protecting the consumer in the travel industry," said Rodriguez. "It’s fantastic because it’s a diverse committee. We will be looking at the best interests for the customers."
Rodriguez and his fellow committee members will meet twice a year in Washington D.C. to discuss consumer issues and hear comments from members of the public. The DOT says, since establishing the committee in 2012, it has led to the department providing more online resources for consumers and requiring more airlines to report service quality data.
The selection of the committee members is part of the DOT’s response to President Obama’s executive order to promote more competition and protect consumers. The department is taking additional actions, such as requiring funds for delayed baggage, expanding the number of carriers required to report data and protecting air travelers with disabilities.
Rodriguez says he believes his success in customer service helped bring him to the table.