Payam Javan: Several major U.S. airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Hawaiian Airlines, and Alaska Airlines, are contesting a new rule by the U.S. Department of Transportation that mandates upfront disclosure of airline travel fees.

The rule aims to provide transparency and help customers avoid unexpected costs. The airlines argue that the rule exceeds the department’s authority and will confuse customers.

The Transportation Department defends the rule, stating it protects travelers from hidden fees. Southwest Airlines, which supported parts of the rule, did not join the lawsuit. Additionally, lawmakers have included a rule mandating automatic cash refunds for flight cancellations in a Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bill.