Automatic airline refunds headed your way

Thursday, August 15, 2024

Airline passengers will be entitled to an automatic refund if their flight is cancelled or significantly delayed or changed—even if they booked a nonrefundable flight.

The new Department of Transportation (DOT) rule will make it simple for passengers to get what they’re owed. Refunds must be:

• Automatic: No need for passengers to request a refund.
• Prompt: The refund must be issued within seven business days (for credit card purchases) and 20 (calendar) days for cash, check or debit.
• Paid in full: Refunds must include all taxes, baggage and other fees paid.             

The DOT defines “significant delay” as three hours domestically and six hours internationally. “Significant changes” include a change in the airport you depart from or arrive at, an increase in the number of connections, a downgrade in travel class, or a change in airport or plane that makes the flight less accessible to someone with a disability.

Passengers can still choose to rebook or accept a travel voucher instead of receiving a refund.

At FlightRights.gov, the DOT provides information on airlines’ free rebooking, hotel accommodation and family seating policies.

Click here for information on filing an airline complaint.

Airlines are required to provide automatic refunds starting Oct. 28, 2024. (Refunds for fares booked through travel agents apply as of April 2025.)