The Albanese government has promised Australians a landmark new aviation consumer protection scheme that could change the way we fly.

The proposed scheme would enshrine consumers' rights to refunds, food and accommodation when flights are delayed or cancelled.

But how effective will it be, and how will everyday Aussies benefit?

Flight Centre Travel Group global leisure chief executive James Kavanagh told 9news.com.au the scheme could give travellers "certainty, better support and fairer solutions for situations out of their control".

Consumer Champion consumer advocate Adam Glezer wasn't as optimistic.

"The only meaningful improvement here is the proposed right to a refund for all cancelled flights," he said.

"COVID-19 should've been a wake-up call, the fact that it's taken the g

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