You’ll likely receive a refund if the airline cancels your flight.
James Martin/CNET
Flights often mean packing some extra patience for the unexpected — long TSA lines, delayed flights and lost luggage. And flights are up 43% from 2020, so these inconvenient, unforeseen problems may be on the rise, too. One big question is, can you be paid for airline headaches that made you miss a flight or go home without your bags?
Even though there’s no one single policy when it comes to travel problems (see more below for the latest from popular airlines), there are a few similarities between airlines, both domestic and international. But there are also some major differences — especially with the ongoing pandemic, new vaccine and cancellation policies.
Rest assured that there are a few ways to claim vouchers, refunds and other accommodations for luggage, canceled flights or any difficulties you experience with your flight. Here’s what you need to know about missing flights, being bumped from a full flight, lost luggage and how to file a claim for travel headaches and nightmares.
When am I entitled to a travel refund from my airline?
In the US, you’ll typically have more luck receiving a refund on your ticket price if:
- The airline cancels your flight.
- There’s a “significant delay,” according to the Department of Transportation (it isn’t clear how long that would be).
- You’re involuntarily moved to a lower service class from the one that you paid for, like being moved from your First Class booking to an economy seat.
- You can’t use a service…