An advocate for air passenger rights says airlines must be held accountable.

A group of more than 200 Newfoundlanders have been left stranded at Toronto Pearson. WestJet cancelled their flight home and they’re being told they might not get home for Christmas.

Air Passenger Bill of Rights Advocate, Woody French, says while we don’t know the ins-and-outs of this particular situation, it seems as though passenger’s rights are being violated, but the airlines may use “safety” as a reason not to reimburse those stranded. He says the airlines need to be challenged for their practices.

French says if it was anyone else not adhering to federal legislation, action would be taken, but the airlines have a powerful lobby in Ottawa, allowing them to circumvent the regulations.

Meanwhile, Krista Babij, a woman stranded with her family at Toronto Pearson, says despite barriers, they were able to book a flight for December 23 with Air Canada.

She says her husband spent seven hours on hold waiting to speak with someone to rebook, however they were finally able to book a flight for Friday night.

Babij says they still haven’t been given a reason for the delay.