New Automatic US Airline Refund Rules Now in Effect — Here’s What You Need to Know

The new rules make it easier for you to get your money back because they require airlines to automatically provide prompt cash refunds when you’re entitled to one. The new guidelines strictly define prompt as seven business days for credit card purchases and 20 calendar days if you used any other form of payment. You’ll receive the full amount you paid minus any portion of the travel you’ve already used. The refund must be in cash or made to the original form of payment (credit card, miles, etc.).

You’re entitled to an automatic refund if you don’t accept alternative transportation options offered by the airline or travel credits when one of the following happens:

The New Refund Rules: What’s Covered

Airlines now have to automatically issue a refund if you’re entitled to one. No more lengthy phone calls, waiting for credits or vouchers, or fighting to get your money back. The new rules lay out a clear process that guarantees passengers a prompt refund.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Automatic Refunds: If your flight is canceled or severely delayed, the airline must refund you in full. The refund will be processed to the original form of payment (whether it’s a credit card, frequent flyer miles, or other payment method) and must be issued within seven business days for credit card payments or 20 calendar days for other forms of payment.
• Full Refunds: You’ll receive the total amount you paid for the flight minus any portion of the trip you’ve already used (if applicable).

When You’re Entitled to a Refund

Under the new guidelines, you are entitled to an automatic refund if:

1. Your flight is canceled – Whether it’s a last-minute cancellation or an unexpected disruption, if your flight is canceled, you get your money back.

2. Your flight is delayed –

• Domestic flights: A delay of three hours or more.
• International flights: A delay of six hours or more.

3.  Changes to your itinerary:

• Departure or arrival airport changes.
• The number of connections increases unexpectedly.
• Your cabin class is downgraded.

4.  Accessibility issues: If there’s a change in aircraft or connecting airport that makes it less accessible or accommodating to your disability, you are entitled to a refund.

5. You didn’t accept alternative options: If the airline offers you an alternative transportation option or travel credit, but you don’t accept it, you’re entitled to a refund.

6. Additional services weren’t provided: If you paid for extra services, like inflight Wi-Fi, seat selection, or priority boarding, and the airline fails to deliver, you’re owed a refund for those services.

7. Checked baggage fees: If your checked baggage is delayed, you may be entitled to a refund:

• 12 hours or more for domestic flights.
• 15-30 hours for international flights (depending on the flight length).

When Airlines Don’t Owe You a Refund

While the new rules offer greater protection for passengers, there are still some situations where airlines aren’t required to refund you:

1. Non-refundable tickets: If you purchased a non-refundable ticket and your flight delay doesn’t qualify as “significant” under the new guidelines, you’re not entitled to a refund.

2. Uncontrollable delays: Airlines are not required to refund you for delays caused by factors outside their control, including:

• Weather or natural disasters.
• Air traffic control issues.
• Safety or security concerns.

3. Personal issues: If you miss your flight for personal reasons (e.g., illness or arriving late at the airport), the airline isn’t obligated to give you a refund.

4. Incidental expenses: Airlines are not required to reimburse you for additional expenses incurred due to a delay, like meals or lodging. However, depending on the situation, they may offer meal or hotel vouchers, or reimburse you for certain extra costs. It’s always worth reaching out to the airline if you’re facing unexpected expenses due to a disruption.