New rules on airline refunds you need to know, just in time for holiday travel

Just in time for the holiday travel season, new rules went into effect in late October that require airlines to provide refunds for travelers in certain situations.

Earlier this week, three new rules went into effect that expand airline refund options for passengers. The new rules cover delayed checked bags, unmet travel features (like WiFi), and significantly changed or delayed flights. The rules were laid out by the Department of Transportation this past spring and require airlines to make it easier for travelers to receive a refund.

The backstory

Prior to these rules, airlines were allowed to set individual standards on what warranted a refund for flight changes. This caused a lot of confusion and made it incredibly difficult for passengers to understand their rights when it came to asking for their money back. With these new rules, airlines are required to promptly notify passengers of their right to a full refund. If a passenger decides to pursue that course of action, refunds must be made within seven days, depending on the initial payment option.

Refund for delayed checked bag

You’re now entitled to a refund if a paid checked bag doesn’t arrive at the airport within 12 hours after a domestic flight. For international flights, you’re owed a refund after 15 to 30 hours, depending on the length of your flight. However, passengers are required to fill out a mishandled baggage report with the airlines before requesting a refund.

Refund for extra services

If you’ve purchased extra services like Wi-Fi, seat selection, or inflight entertainment and the airline is unable to provide those services, you are entitled to a refund.

Refund for flight changes

Passengers can get a refund if they choose not to board a flight that has been significantly changed or delayed. “Significantly delayed” is now defined across all airlines as three hours for domestic flights and six hours for international flights. Additionally, you are entitled to a refund if a flight change increases the amount of connecting flights; changes the departure or arrival airport; or changes a flight to a plane that is less accessible or accommodating for passengers with disabilities. As a traveler, you are also eligible for a refund if you’re downgraded a travel class.

What’s next

In August, the Department of Transportation proposed a new rule that would ban airlines from charging junk fees when assigning children (aged 13 or under) a seat next to their parents or guardians. The proposed rule, still under consideration, would also require airlines to seat children next to their parents for free within 48 hours of travel when nearby seats are available.