Airlines Required to Offer Automatic Refunds for Canceled and Delayed Flights
New Refund Regulations for Airlines
U.S. airlines are now obligated to issue automatic refunds for canceled or significantly delayed flights, as well as for services paid but not delivered, such as Wi-Fi or entertainment service. "Passengers deserve to get their money back when an airline owes them—without headaches or haggling," stated Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.
Understanding the Refund Process
The Transportation Department's new rule establishes that a significant delay is defined as lasting at least three hours for domestic flights and six hours for international flights. Refunds must be processed within seven business days for credit card transactions and within 20 calendar days for other payment methods.
- Checked Bag Refunds: Passengers are eligible for refunds on checked bag fees if bags are not delivered within 12 hours for domestic flights; international flights may take between 15 and 30 hours depending on length.
- Support from Airlines:
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