Flight Delayed or Canceled? Here’s What Your Airline Owes You
When traveling by air, delays and cancellations can be frustrating and disruptive. However, it’s essential for passengers to understand their rights in the event of such inconveniences. In the United States, while airlines are not legally required to compensate passengers for delayed or canceled flights, various protections do exist that can help mitigate the impact on travelers. The Department of Transportation (DOT) mandates that airlines must provide clear information regarding flight status and notify passengers of delays or cancellations in a timely manner. This transparency is crucial for passengers to make informed decisions about their travel plans.
In cases of flight cancellations, airlines are obligated to offer passengers a choice between a full refund or rebooking on a later flight. If a flight is delayed significantly—generally defined as three hours or more for domestic flights—airlines may provide compensation, although this varies by carrier. For instance, some airlines may offer meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, or even travel credits, while others may not provide any compensation at all. It’s important for travelers to familiarize themselves with the specific policies of the airline they are flying with, as these can differ widely. Moreover, if a delay or cancellation is caused by factors within the airline’s control, such as mechanical issues, passengers may have additional rights to compensation.
Passengers should also be aware of their rights regarding denied boarding due to overbooking. Under DOT regulations, if a passenger is involuntarily bumped from a flight, they are entitled to compensation, which can be as much as 400% of the one-way fare, depending on the circumstances. Additionally, travelers should keep thorough documentation of their travel plans, including receipts for any expenses incurred due to delays or cancellations, as this can aid in the claims process. By understanding these rights and being proactive, airline passengers can navigate the often tumultuous experience of flight delays and cancellations with greater confidence and assurance.
These are your rights as an airline passenger if your flight is delayed or cancelled in the US.
