The Department of Transportation has reported a significant increase in consumer complaints related to air travel in 2023, with nearly 97,000 complaints filed - the highest number since the COVID pandemic in 2020. Despite fewer flight cancellations, delays remained high at 21% of all flights, leading to frustration among passengers. The majority of complaints were directed towards US airlines, with issues regarding the treatment of passengers with disabilities and discrimination on the rise. While airlines receive even more complaints from travellers who do not report to the government, these numbers are not disclosed by carriers. The Transportation Department is updating its complaint system to better regulate the airline industry, but current figures are released months late. This increase in complaints underscores the need for airlines to address customer concerns and improve overall travel experiences.