CNN || Bumped fliers could get $800

The government is ordering airlines to double the compensation they must pay passengers bumped from oversold flights to as much as $800 under certain conditions.

Under the change announced Wednesday by Transportation Secretary Mary Peters, fliers who are involuntarily bumped would receive up to $400 if they are rescheduled to reach their destination within two hours of their original arrival time, or four hours for international flights, and up to $800 if their arrival is delayed longer.

The change, which goes into effect in May, is among several new aviation measures aimed at strengthening passenger protections, improving consumer choice and reducing congestion, according to a written statement from the Transportation Department.

"We are taking steps to improve the travel experience, cut delays and lower fares in one of America's busiest aviation markets," Peters said. She said the department will hold a series of Aviation Consumer Forums to educate travelers and hear their comments.

The new bumping rule covers more flights, including planes seating as few as 30 travelers. The current rule covers flights with 60 seats or more.

The amount of the payment will be determined by the price of the ticket and the length of the delay, and is in addition to the value of the passenger's ticket, which can be used for alternate transportation or can be refunded.

"It's hard to compensate for a missed family occasion or business opportunity, but this rule will ensure fliers are more fairly reimbursed for their inconvenience," Peters said.

Among the other changes:

Aircraft will be able to fly alternate routes to avoid severe weather, including an "escape route" into Canadian airspace from the New York metropolitan area.