What are my rights if my flight is delayed by an airline?

If your flight is delayed significantly for a controllable reason, you can get a refund if you choose not to travel, or seek compensation/accommodation.

How long must a flight be delayed for it to be 'significant' by the DOT?

A domestic flight delay is significant if it's three hours or more; an international flight delay is significant if it's six hours or more.

Do airlines offer cash compensation for flight delays?

Currently, no U.S. airlines offer cash compensation for delays, but they may provide refunds, rebooking, or accommodation vouchers.

Home / Business and Economy / Flight Delays? Know Your Rights for Refunds & Compensation

Flight Delays? Know Your Rights for Refunds & Compensation

18 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Passengers may be entitled to refunds or compensation for significant flight delays.
A significant delay is defined as 3+ hours for domestic, 6+ for international.
Controllable delays are airline-caused; weather and ATC issues are not.

Flight Delays? Know Your Rights for Refunds & Compensation

Travelers facing flight delays can be entitled to refunds or compensation based on airline commitments to the Department of Transportation. A significant delay is defined as three or more hours for domestic flights and six or more hours for international flights. Airlines are required to honor their promises outlined in customer service plans for delays within their control, which include issues like maintenance or crew problems.

However, delays caused by external factors such as weather or air traffic control programs do not fall under airline responsibility. If a flight is significantly delayed for a controllable reason, passengers have the right to a refund if they choose not to travel. Alternatively, they may be offered rebooking, accommodation vouchers, or other benefits if they still wish to fly.