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New Federal Rules Mandate Automatic Refunds for Flight Delays and Cancellations

The U.S. Department of Transportation's new regulations require airlines to issue immediate cash refunds for significant delays, cancellations, and service failures.

Travelers should review their options before flights are delayed or canceled. File photo: A digital display shows canceled flights in the Southwest Airlines luggage area, on Dec. 28, 2022, at Los Angeles International Airport. The perfect storm of fierce snow squalls, howling wind and sub-zero temperatures forced the cancellation of thousands of flights then.
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Overview

  • The new rules define 'significant changes' to flights, including delays over three hours domestically and six hours internationally.
  • Airlines must automatically refund passengers without requiring them to request it, streamlining the process.
  • Checked baggage fees will be refunded if bags are delayed by more than 12 hours for domestic flights.
  • Additional regulations ensure transparency in fee disclosures, helping passengers understand costs upfront.
  • The changes aim to address common complaints and improve overall passenger experience.