Does an airline have to pay for your hotel if you miss a connection with them?

Airline Responsibility for Hotel Expenses in Case of Missed Connections

When a passenger misses a connecting flight, the question arises whether the airline is obligated to provide hotel accommodations. The answer depends on the reason for the missed connection.

Missed Connections Due to Passenger’s Fault

If the passenger is responsible for the missed connection, such as due to late arrival at the airport or failure to follow airline instructions, the airline is typically not held liable for any expenses incurred by the passenger. In this scenario, the passenger is expected to make their own arrangements for accommodation.

Missed Connections Due to Carrier Issue

However, if the missed connection is caused by an issue within the airline’s control, such as a flight cancellation, delay, or missed baggage, the airline may be obligated to provide assistance to the passenger. This assistance may include arranging and paying for hotel accommodations.

It is important to note that the level of assistance provided by the airline can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the airline’s policies. Some airlines may offer hotel accommodations for passengers stranded overnight, while others may only provide assistance with finding alternative flights or providing vouchers for meals.

Passenger Entitlements

In the event of a missed connection due to a carrier issue, passengers may be entitled to the following assistance from the airline:

• Rebooking on an alternative flight
• Hotel accommodations
• Meal vouchers
• Transportation to and from the hotel

Proving Carrier Fault

To ensure that the airline is held responsible for the missed connection, passengers should be prepared to provide evidence of the carrier issue. This may include flight delay notifications, proof of on-time arrival at the airport, or documentation of lost baggage.

Conclusion

Whether an airline is required to pay for a passenger’s hotel expenses in the event of a missed connection depends on the cause of the missed connection. If the missed connection is due to the passenger’s own actions, the airline typically does not provide assistance. However, in cases where the carrier is responsible for the issue, the airline may be obligated to arrange and pay for hotel accommodations and other expenses.