Airline Refunds and Delays (U.S.)

• Refunds are owed in the original form of payment if you reject the alternative.
• A significant change includes a domestic flight departing 3+ hours early or arriving 3+ hours late (6+ hours internationally), a different airport, more connections or a downgrade.
• Compensation for delays beyond refunds depends on each airline's commitments.
• You can file a complaint with DOT.

Most large U.S. airlines have committed to benefits such as meals or hotels for controllable delays and cancellations; DOT lists them at flightrights.gov. Refunds must be automatic: within 7 business days for credit card purchases and 20 calendar days for other payment methods.