New U.S Department of Transportation refund rules

The US DOT has introduced new refund criteria for flight disruptions, applicable to all customers traveling to, from, or within the United States, regardless of ticket type (refundable or non-refundable). Refunds may be requested if:

  • The flight is canceled.
  • The flight is delayed by 3+ hours (domestic) or 6+ hours (international).
  • There is an early departure by 3+ hours (domestic) or 6+ hours (international).
  • The origin or destination changes.
  • Additional connecting points are added.
  • There is a downgrade to a lower class or cabin.
  • The flight number changes.
  • Accessibility of the aircraft changes for disabled passengers.

Additional Refund Rules:

  1. Mishandled Bags: Refunds for paid checked bag fees if the bag is delayed by 12+ hours (domestic) or 15+ hours (international), with a Mishandled Baggage Report filed.
  2. Prepaid Ancillary Services: Refunds for paid services that were not provided due to circumstances outside the customer’s control.