Oregon Public Broadcasting

Representatives of Alaska Airlines got a hostile reception from Washington lawmakers Tuesday.

They were testifying against a proposed airline passenger bill of rights.

Scott Jarvis, Vice President of Marketing for Alaska, said regulations are not the answer. But he got interrupted by the sponsor of the legislation, State Senator Ken Jacobsen, a Seattle Democrat.

Scott Jarvis: “I would hope that competition would rule the day and bad apples would lose business if they’re delivering poor customer service.”

Ken Jacobsen: “In the meantime, nine hours on the runway someone’s going to die.”

Scott Jarvis: “I wouldn’t want to be stuck on board nine hours on a runway either.”

Ken Jacobsen: “But that’s what I’m telling you is a problem and it’s not happening fast enough.”

Also testifying Tuesday was Kate Hanni, who’s become a national spokeswoman for passenger rights. She got involved in the issue after being stuck on a tarmac in Texas for nine hours.

Among other things, the legislation says airlines must provide food and water to passengers held for more than three hours.