Air travel complaints in 2023 reached a record high of nearly 97,000, reflecting a rise in passenger dissatisfaction despite fewer flight cancellations. The complaints, mostly about U.S. airlines, highlighted issues with delays, customer service, and treatment of passengers with disabilities. The surge in grievances may be attributed to increased consumer awareness and the ease of filing complaints. The Department of Transportation assisted customers in receiving over $600 million in refunds from Southwest Airlines, which faced a hefty fine for flight cancellations. Complaints of discrimination, particularly related to race or national origin, also saw a notable increase. The industry's lack of transparency in reporting complaints from travelers who don't file with the government remains unresolved. Despite efforts to modernize the complaint system, with a focus on improving oversight, issues persist in addressing passenger concerns promptly and effectively.