In short: if a flight to, from or within the US is cancelled or significantly delayed or changed, and you don't accept the alternative, you are entitled to a full refund, including taxes and paid extras. US law doesn't require airlines to pay compensation for delays.
What counts as a significant change?
Under 14 CFR Part 260, a flight is "significantly delayed or changed" when:
- departure is 3 or more hours earlier or arrival 3 or more hours later than scheduled (domestic), or
- departure is 6 or more hours earlier or arrival 6 or more hours later than scheduled (international), or
- your origin or destination airport changes, you get more connections than originally booked, or you're downgraded to a lower class.
How fast must the refund arrive?
| How you paid | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Credit card | 7 business days |
| Cash, check, debit card or other methods | 20 calendar days |
The refund must be in cash or an equivalent you can use like cash. If the airline offers a voucher or credit instead, it must also tell you about your right to a refund, and the voucher must remain valid for at least five years.
What about compensation?
There is no federal requirement for airlines to pay compensation for delays or cancellations. Some airlines promise meals, hotels or credits in their customer service plans. Separate rules apply if you're involuntarily bumped from an oversold flight.
If the refund doesn't arrive
- Ask the airline or ticket agent that took your payment, in writing.
- File a complaint with the US Department of Transportation.
- If you paid by credit card, you may also be able to dispute the charge. See chargebacks explained.
Parts of the DOT refund rules have been under administrative reconsideration. Check the DOT source for the current position.