Originally Posted by
gratn
Instead, I expect the DOT will say all four flights (AKL-LAX, LAX-LHR, LHR-LAX and LAX-AKL) are to or from the USA.
I would agree if they are booked separately. But I have my doubt on the AKL-LHR, as LAX seems like a tech stop to me (although NZ can drop off AKL-LAX pax and pick up LAX-LHR).
Originally Posted by
Hector99
Will report back with DoT response
Sorry but DOT won't write you back.
The online complaint platform is for DOT to resolve most complaints informally (and possibly identify the bigger issue). Because the majority of the airlines will compromise their positions, in most of the cases, the cases are resolved and DOT is put on notice about the resolution (as the required airline response). DOT generally won't act other than creating a bridge between parties to communicate as they are similar informal complaints.
But if NZ decides not to back down, then the impacted customer can file a petition for enforcement, i.e. the formal complaint. With this complaint, DOT is compelled to act and determine if NZ has violated the relevant law and/or regulations. It is an administrative process, which is relatively cheaper than litigation, but not much difference. Here are the procedures:
https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text...-302/subpart-D
How to file and pursue a consumer complaint against an airline ? and the DOT “formal complaint” process – Ben Edelman