No More Fighting airlines for Your Money

The next time your flight gets delayed, you might get paid for the time you spend waiting on the tarmac. New legislation from Congress and the Department of Transportation requires airlines to provide cash refunds for flights that are cancelled or substantially delayed. Though, you won’t get paid unless you know the rules.

The new law is the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act, sometimes referred to as the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024.It establishes stricter rules for passenger refunds, as well as defining “significant” delays for flights.

Before the new law, U.S. airlines were allowed to set their own rules for refunds, and those rules could vary from company to company.Here are some high points you can look forward to if you travel in 2025.

Manny airlines stopped refunding cancelled flights during the COVID-19 pandemic. Existing law allowed passengers to request repayment for cancellations due to circumstances beyond their control, but the law was riddled with loopholes.Key Takeaways

The Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in american Aviation Act makes airline ticket refunds automatic if your flight is canceled or significantly delayed.
the legislation also sets specific hour requirements for how long a plane must remain grounded for it to be considered delayed.
The Act provides for refunds of baggage fees, also subject to hour requirements. U.S. airlines were originally required to post their baggage fees, also subject to hour requirements.

Know Your Rights: When Airlines Must Offer Refunds

Flight delays and cancellations are frustrating, but you have rights. The Department of Transportation (DOT) has strengthened rules to protect passengers and ensure airlines provide prompt refunds when things go wrong. Here’s what you need to know.

You’re entitled to a refund if the airline cancels your flight, regardless of the reason. Don’t accept travel credits if you prefer your money back – you have the right to a refund to your original form of payment. The DOT is clear on this. You also get a refund when their flights are canceled or if you reach your destinations three hours or more beyond the originally scheduled time. This increases to six hours for international flights. You can decline the option of being rebooked on another flight.[1][2]

However, airlines aren’t always on the hook.There are exceptions. They don’t have to pay up if delays are “uncontrollable.” This includes situations like air traffic control issues, hazardous weather, natural disasters, or security concerns.[3]

Keep in mind, the airline only reimburses the cost of your ticket.Don’t expect compensation for expenses incurred during the delay. That pricey airport meal? You’ll have to cover that yourself.[3]

Refunds aren’t limited to just delays. Significant changes to your travel plans also qualify you for a refund. This includes changes in airports, an increase in the number of connections, or a downgrade in your travel experience – like losing access to premium perks.[2]

When Your bag Doesn’t Turn Up: New Refund Timelines

Lost baggage is another area where new rules offer protection. Airlines must now refund fees for baggage that is significantly delayed. Previously, there wasn’t a standard definition of “delayed.” Now, the DOT says airlines must provide a refund for baggage delayed more than 12 hours domestically and more than 21 hours internationally.

These new rules are designed to hold airlines accountable and ensure passengers recieve the compensation they deserve when travel plans are disrupted. Don’t hesitate to file a complaint with the DOT if you believe your rights have been violated. You can do so here.

sources:

1. U.S. Department of Transportation – Refunds
2. NPR – Airlines must Now Offer Refunds for Significant Delays
3. U.S. Department of Transportation – Refunds