Mediation for disputes about federal transportation
Accessible, rail and marine transportation
An Agency mediator helps parties settle their differences through negotiation (face-to-face or by teleconference).
| Type of disputes | Possible outcome |
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The mediator helps the parties reach a confidential settlement agreement that can be filed with, and enforced by, the Agency. |
Air travel complaints
On September 30, 2023, the CTA launched a new resolution process for air travel complaints. The process applies to all air travel complaints, including active complaints that have already been submitted.
Read more about the mediation process in the new air travel complaint process.
How mediation works
Mediation is an informal, voluntary and confidential process that promotes open and respectful communication. A neutral and impartial mediator will assist the parties in negotiating a mutually satisfactory settlement themselves – the mediators have no decision making powers. Agency employees who are qualified mediators and experienced in the transportation sector are appointed by the Chair of the Agency to manage the mediation process.
Mediation allows the parties to express their views on the dispute, examine their interests and concerns, explore a variety of creative options, and develop their own solutions in a timely and cost-effective manner.
Mediation is an informal alternative to arbitration and adjudication. However, it’s still a structured process with requirements that the parties must follow. For instance, it must be completed within a statutory deadline, unless the parties agree otherwise.
To learn more about mediation, read Resolution of Disputes through Mediation.
How to request mediation
You can submit a request either individually or jointly.
As the mediation process is voluntary, all parties must agree in writing to participate before the process can proceed.
After you submit a request to mediate
If all parties agree to refer their dispute to mediation, the Chair of the Agency will appoint one or two mediators to mediate the dispute. The parties will need to complete an agreement to mediate.
Additional information:
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