Big Win For Airline Travelers Going Into Busy Holiday Travel Season

 

Good news for travelers this busy holiday travel season! 

A new US rule went into effect in late October that will require airlines to issue automatic refunds when your flight gets cancelled significantly delayed. 

What does this mean?

• If your flight is delayed by at least three hours for domestic flights and six hours for international, you will automatically get a refund according to the Department of Transportation. 
• If your arriving or departing airport changes
• If the number of connections changes 
• You are switched onto a plane that's less accessible if you have a disability. 
• If your flight is cancelled 
• Your cabin class is downgraded 
• You also need to be compensated for lost or delayed baggage 
• If you pay for services like wifi, in flight entertainment or seat selection and they were not provided. 

Big Win For Airline Travelers Going Into Busy Holiday Travel Season 

You no longer need to request a refund, you will automatically be refunded to your original payment method within one week or within 20 days if you paid with cash or points. 

Just a reminder, airlines still do not owe your a refund if:

• Personal reasons (sick, you miss your flight)
• Weather or natural disasters 
• Air traffic 
• Safety and security issues

US airlines are still not required to reimburse you for expenses you incur due to the delay or offer hotel or food vouchers. 

If you would like help planning your bucket list trip, reach out to me. I'll help you use points and miles to make your memorable trip affordable.