Compliance reports from the U.S. Department of Transportation

U.S. Airlines Now Required to Automatically Refund Passengers for Canceled Flights or Delays Over 3 Hours

Oct 29, 2024, 04:19 PM

Starting October 28, 2024, new airline refund rules from the U.S. Department of Transportation have come into full effect, requiring airlines to automatically issue cash refunds to passengers for canceled flights, significantly changed flights, or significant delays without the need for passengers to request them. A significant delay is defined as at least three hours for domestic flights and six hours for international flights. The rules also mandate refunds for services paid for but not provided, such as in-flight Wi-Fi or entertainment, and for delayed baggage not delivered within 12 hours of a domestic flight's arrival. The changes, part of the Biden administration's consumer protection efforts, aim to improve travel experiences ahead of the busy holiday season and ensure passengers receive prompt compensation without unnecessary hurdles. As Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg stated, "Passengers deserve to get their money back when an airline owes them—without headaches or haggling." Previously, airlines set their own standards for refunds, but the new regulations establish uniform guidelines.