What do airlines owe you if they change your flight?

Passenger Entitlements in the Event of Flight Changes

Air travel can be unpredictable, and when flights are canceled or significantly altered, passengers are often left wondering about their rights. Airlines have legal obligations to compensate travelers for disrupted travel, ensuring fair treatment and protection.

Refund Rights

If an airline cancels a flight, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the fare paid. This refund must be provided within seven days of the cancellation. If the airline offers an alternative flight that is not acceptable to the passenger, they are also entitled to a refund.

Accommodation and Transportation

When a flight is canceled or delayed for an extended period, airlines are required to provide reasonable accommodation and transportation to passengers. This may include providing hotel accommodations, meals, and transportation to another destination. The airline’s obligation to provide accommodation and transportation ends when the flight is rescheduled or the passenger chooses not to travel.

Rebooking

Airlines are obligated to make reasonable efforts to rebook passengers on alternative flights. If the available flights do not meet the passenger’s needs, they may be entitled to a refund or compensation. The airline should provide the passenger with a variety of options and work to find a convenient alternative.

Compensation for Delays

In addition to providing accommodation and transportation, some airlines may offer compensation for significant flight delays. The amount of compensation varies depending on the airline and the length of the delay. Passengers should contact the airline directly to inquire about any compensation policies.

Exceptions

There are a few exceptions to the general rules governing flight changes. Airlines are not required to compensate passengers if the disruption is caused by factors beyond their control, such as weather, natural disasters, or security concerns. Additionally, airlines may limit their liability for delays or cancellations caused by factors within their control, such as mechanical issues or staffing shortages.

Passenger Responsibilities

Passengers also have responsibilities in the event of flight changes. It is important to:

• Inform the airline as soon as possible if you cannot travel on the rescheduled flight.
• Be flexible and work with the airline to find an acceptable alternative.
• Keep all documentation related to the flight change, including boarding passes, confirmation emails, and receipts for expenses incurred.

By understanding their rights and responsibilities, passengers can ensure fair treatment when their flights are disrupted. Airlines are legally obligated to compensate passengers for inconveniences caused by flight changes and provide reasonable assistance to minimize the impact on their travel plans.