The holiday season is a great time to travel. And because of that, it’s also a very popular time to travel.
Airports are crowded and flights are full to the brim, and this can make travel difficult. If you’re looking to travel this season, you’re going to want to hear this.
Cash Refunds for Flight Cancellations Act of 2023
This federal law’s goal is to protect travelers who are unduly inconvenienced during travel. It was a high priority for the Biden Administration, and it passed in 2023. The law requires airlines to provide automatic refunds if they cancel a flight or makes significant changes to one. This is regardless of the reason and must occur if the traveler isn’t rebooked on a new flight, chooses not to be rebooked, or doesn’t proactively accept alternative compensation, such as a flight voucher or miles.
The Regs Make It Real
United States Department of Transportation was required to issue regulations to give some teeth – and detail – to the law. The DOT finalized regulations in 2024. Also among the new traveler-friendly requirements are that passengers must be given refunds for checked bag fees if a bag isn’t delivered within 12 hours of the arrival of a domestic flight.
Passengers also can receive a refund for extra services that they paid for but didn’t get, including things like Wi-Fi, seat selections, and in-flight entertainment.
The refunds are required to be automatic, prompt, in full, and in cash or in the original form of payment.
Significant Changes To Travel Plans Count
Compensation is due to travelers when there are significant changes. So it begs the question: what counts as a significant change?
The Department of Transportation tells us that these are significant changes:
• A domestic flight delayed by 3 or more hours;
• An international flight delayed by 6 or more hours;
• Any changes to the origination or destination airport;
• An increase in connections;
• Downgrades to a lower class of service; and
• Less accessible connections for passengers with disabilities
Since we’re in another busy travel season, The Coppola Firm wanted to share this information in plan language.
We hope your travel is flawless, but if you run into snags, this information can help.
