United States: refunds, not delay compensation
US law does not require airlines to pay cash compensation for delays or cancellations. DOT withdrew its proposal to create such a requirement on 17 November 2025. What you do get is a right to a refund, airline service commitments, and cash if you are bumped.
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1Was your flight cancelled, or significantly changed (arrival 3+ hours later domestic, 6+ hours later international, different airport, extra connection, downgrade)?
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2Were you bumped involuntarily because a flight departing the US was oversold?
YesYou are owed denied-boarding compensation: 200% of your one-way fare up to $1,075 if you arrive more than 1 hour but less than 2 hours late (less than 4 hours on international flights), or 400% up to $2,150 if you arrive 2 hours or more late (4 hours or more international). 1 hour late or less: none (14 CFR 250.5). Exceptions: you did not meet the check-in, document or conduct rules; a smaller aircraft was substituted for operational or safety reasons; weight or balance limits on an aircraft of 60 seats or fewer (14 CFR 250.6). The rules cover aircraft with 30 or more seats.
NoGo to step 3. Removal for other reasons is not covered by these rules; ask the airline for its reason in writing.
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3Was the delay or cancellation caused by the airline (for example maintenance or crew)?
YesCheck the airline's commitments on the DOT Airline Customer Service Dashboard: meals, hotel, rebooking. Airlines must keep those promises.
NoNo federal compensation. Check your card or travel insurance (checklist).
Refund timing
Bumped and not paid, or refused a refund? Complain to the airline first, then to the US Department of Transportation (opens in a new tab).
Refunds are due within 7 business days for credit card purchases and 20 days for other payment types, to the original form of payment.
Flying to or from Europe or Canada? EU261, UK261 or APPR may still apply to the same trip. Run the checker.
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