When Winter Storms Ground Flights, What Are Your Airline Refund Rights?
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience.
Thousands of flights are canceled by winter storms; US Department of Transportation rules mandate full refunds for passengers who decline rebooking.
Key Takeaways
- •The U.S. DOT mandates full refunds for all canceled flights, even nonrefundable tickets, regardless of the reason (weather or controllable).
- •Airlines are not required to cover hotel or meal costs for delays or cancellations caused by "uncontrollable" events like severe weather.
- •American Airlines canceled over 1,200 flights on January 24, according to Cirium, due to the powerful winter storm that brought freezing rain to Texas.
A powerful winter storm is disrupting air travel across the United States. Thousands of passengers face flight cancellations and delays. These disruptions test travelers' knowledge of their airline passenger rights. Forecasters expect snow, sleet, and ice to affect half the U.S. population. This severe weather has already caused thousands of weekend winter storm flight cancellations. More disruptions are likely as the storm continues.
Know Your Passenger Rights During Disruptions
When airlines anticipate weather problems, they often issue travel waivers. These waivers let passengers rebook flights without paying change fees. Travelers should check their airline's website for "travel alerts" or "travel waivers."
American Airlines is waiving change fees for passengers affected by the storm. This storm brought freezing rain to parts of Texas on Friday. American Airlines canceled over 1,200 flights scheduled for January 24. This data comes from aviation analytics firm Cirium. The carrier also added over 3,200 extra seats at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). These extra seats were available through at least January 25.
Passengers must confirm their flight status before going to the airport. Use the airline's mobile app or website to check the status. Weather cancellations can happen hours or even days before departure.
Refunds are Mandatory, Regardless of Reason
If a flight is canceled, passengers have a legal right to a flight cancellation refund. This rule applies even if the ticket was nonrefundable. The reason for the cancellation does not matter under federal law.
If a passenger no longer wants to travel, they can insist on a refund. This is true even if the airline offers travel credits or rebooking. Refunds are also due for unused extras, such as baggage fees or seat upgrades.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), there are strict processing deadlines. Credit card refunds must be processed within seven business days. This timeline starts after the passenger declines rebooking or a voucher. Refunds paid by cash or check are due within 20 calendar days. These US Department of Transportation rules protect consumers.
What Airlines Must and Don't Cover
U.S. airlines are not required to pay for meals or hotels. This lack of compensation applies when flights are canceled due to "uncontrollable" events. Severe weather is considered an uncontrollable events compensation situation.
However, airlines must cover costs for disruptions they can control. Examples include maintenance problems or crew shortages. The DOT tracks these commitments to hold airlines accountable.
Rebooking and Expert Travel Advice
Most airlines will rebooking on another carrier for a later flight at no extra charge. Availability depends on open seats on the same airline. Airlines are not legally required to book travelers on competing carriers. Some large carriers may rebook passengers on partner airlines, but this is not guaranteed.
Customer service lines become quickly overwhelmed during major storms. Travelers with elite frequent-flyer status should use priority phone numbers. Another option is calling an airline's international support line. Agents there can often assist with rebooking more quickly.
Kyle Potter, executive editor of Thrifty Traveler, advises caution. He suggests travelers consider booking backup flights when forecasts look risky. Many airlines allow full refunds if tickets are canceled within 24 hours of booking.
For global airline trends and commercial aviation news, turn to flying.flights.
Written by Ujjwal Sukhwani
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience. Covers flight operations, safety regulations, and market trends with expert analysis.
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