Are airlines required to give refunds for delayed flights?
U.S. rules for flight delays
Under U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) rules, airlines are not required to provide refunds for delays. However, if a flight is cancelled or significantly delayed (typically defined as a change that causes you to arrive more than 3 hours late for domestic flights), you are entitled to a refund if you choose not to travel.
Airlines may offer vouchers, miles, or rebooking instead, but you have the right to a refund to your original payment method if you decline the alternative. This applies to flights to, from, or within the U.S.
- Refund if flight is cancelled and you choose not to travel
- Refund if significant schedule change (usually 3+ hours for domestic)
- No refund for delays if you still take the flight
- Compensation (cash, miles) is not required by U.S. law
- File a complaint with DOT if airline refuses
EU and other international rules
In the European Union, EC Regulation 261/2004 requires cash compensation for delays of 3 hours or more at the final destination, on top of a refund or rebooking. The amount ranges from €250 to €600 depending on distance.
Similar rules exist in Canada, Brazil, and other countries. If your flight departs from or arrives in those regions, you may have stronger rights.
What to do if your flight is delayed
Ask the airline for a written statement of your rights. If you want a refund, request it explicitly and don't accept a voucher unless you prefer it. If the airline refuses, file a complaint with the DOT or the equivalent authority in your country.
Keep receipts for expenses like meals and hotels; some airlines will reimburse for delays within their control, but it's not required by law in the U.S.
Common mistakes
- Assuming U.S. airlines must pay cash compensation for delays — they don't, unless it's a cancellation or significant change and you opt for a refund.
- Accepting a travel voucher without realizing you could get a full refund to your credit card instead.
- Not knowing that EU rules may apply if your flight touches the EU, even on a non-EU airline.
