If your flight is cancelled or significantly changed and you decide not to travel, you are entitled to a refund under US Department of Transportation rules. A rule that took effect in October 2024 clarified what counts as a significant change and requires refunds to be issued automatically.
Key Takeaways
- Airlines must give a cash refund, not a voucher, if they cancel or significantly change a flight and you decline the alternative.
- A significant delay is a departure or arrival change of more than 3 hours for domestic flights or more than 6 hours for international flights.
- Refunds must be issued within 7 business days for credit card purchases and 20 calendar days for other payment methods.
- Checked bag fees must be refunded when bags are significantly delayed.
What counts as a significant change
Under the DOT rule, significant changes include:
- Departure or arrival time changes of more than 3 hours domestically or 6 hours internationally
- Changes to the departure or arrival airport
- Added connections
- Downgrades to a lower class of service
- Changes to connecting airports or aircraft that significantly affect travel for passengers with disabilities
Refunds must be automatic
If you reject the airline’s rebooking or travel credit offer, or do not respond, the airline must issue a refund to the original form of payment. You should not need to request it repeatedly.
Delayed bags
Airlines must refund checked bag fees if bags are significantly delayed: more than 12 hours after arrival for domestic flights, and 15 or 30 hours for international flights depending on flight length.
Paid extras
If you pay for services such as Wi-Fi or seat selection and do not receive them, the airline must refund those fees.
What it does not cover
- Compensation for delays beyond refunds is not required by federal rule, although many airlines offer meals, hotels or rebooking under their own policies. The DOT’s online dashboard shows commitments by airline.
- Delays you choose to wait through: if you accept the rebooking or fly anyway, you are not owed a refund.
- Non-refundable tickets you cancel yourself, unless the airline’s policy allows.
How to request help
- Check your airline app or email for refund options.
- If you reject a rebooking, keep records.
- If a refund does not arrive within the required time, contact the airline.
- File a complaint with the DOT if needed.
International travel
Flights to and from the EU and UK may also be covered by EU261 and UK261, which provide compensation for certain delays and cancellations in addition to refunds.
Travel insurance and credit cards
Some credit cards and travel insurance policies cover delays, missed connections and lost bags. Check your benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the airline give me a voucher instead? Only if you accept it. You are entitled to a refund if you decline.
What about weather cancellations? The refund rule applies regardless of the reason for cancellation.
Is a refund automatic for third-party bookings? Travel agents and online booking sites also have obligations under the rule.
The bottom line
If your flight is cancelled or significantly changed and you do not travel, you are owed a cash refund. Keep records and know the DOT deadlines.
