When does a U.S. passenger refund rule apply?
A cancellation or major schedule change can trigger a refund for a covered trip when you decline the changed flight and the alternatives offered. A voluntary cancellation of an unchanged flight is different.
What this answer depends on
- The flight is scheduled to, from or within the United States.
- The airline charged you directly for the relevant ticket or fee.
- The trip otherwise meets the current U.S. refund requirements.
- The refund processing period starts from the date defined by the current rule or from a valid refund request, depending on the situation.
- The entity named on your payment statement usually identifies who charged you.
Important exceptions
- Do not apply this rule to a voluntary cancellation of an operating, unchanged flight.
- Some DOT guidance uses different wording for the processing period. Check the current regulation and the payment method before relying on a deadline.
- Responsibility for ancillary fees may differ from responsibility for airfare.
Sources and last checked
- Refundshttps://www.transportation.gov/individuals/aviation-consumer-protection/refunds
- 14 CFR 399.80 — Unfair and Deceptive Practices of Ticket Agentshttps://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/chapter-II/subchapter-F/part-399/subpart-G/section-399.80
- 14 CFR Part 260 — Refunds and Other Consumer Protectionshttps://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/chapter-II/subchapter-A/part-260
- Refunds and Other Consumer Protections; 2024 FAA Reauthorizationhttps://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/08/12/2024-17602/refunds-and-other-consumer-protections-2024-faa-reauthorization