Holiday flights are full, and weather can cancel or delay them. If that happens, federal rules from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) say when the airline must give your money back. This guide explains the refund rule in 14 CFR Part 260, which covers airlines selling flights to, from and within the United States. General information only, not legal advice. Facts checked November 11, 2026.
When you are owed a refund
You are entitled to a refund of your fare, even a nonrefundable fare, when your flight is canceled or significantly changed and you do not accept the changed flight, a rebooking on another flight, or a voucher, credit or other compensation the airline offers.
| Change | Domestic flights | International flights |
|---|---|---|
| Departure moved earlier | 3 hours or more | 6 hours or more |
| Arrival moved later (delay) | 3 hours or more | 6 hours or more |
| Other changes | A different departure or arrival airport, more connections than before, or a downgrade to a lower class of service | |
How the refund must be paid
- In the original form of payment, such as back to your credit card, unless you agree to another cash-equivalent form. The airline cannot keep a processing fee.
- Quickly: within 7 business days if you paid by credit card, and within 20 calendar days for cash, check, debit card or other payment methods.
- A voucher is your choice, not theirs. An airline may offer a voucher or credit as an alternative, but it cannot treat you as having accepted it unless you agree. Vouchers offered this way must stay valid for at least five years.
Bag fees and extras you paid for
- Checked bag fees must be refunded if your bag is significantly delayed: not delivered within 12 hours of your flight's arrival for domestic trips, or within 15 or 30 hours for international trips, depending on the length of the flight. You need to file a mishandled baggage report with the airline.
- Extras not provided, such as paid seat selection, in-flight Wi-Fi or entertainment you did not get through no fault of your own, must be refunded automatically.
What the refund rule does not cover
The refund rule is about getting your money back. It does not require airlines to pay cash compensation for a delay or a cancellation, or to cover meals and hotels. Some airlines commit to more in their own customer service plans, so check your airline's plan on its website. If a bag is damaged, lost or pilfered, separate compensation rules apply.
What to do if your flight is canceled
- Decide whether you want to travel on another flight or get your money back. Do not accept a voucher if you would rather have a refund.
- Ask for the refund through the airline's app, website or agents, and keep screenshots and emails.
- If you paid by credit card and the refund does not arrive, you can dispute the charge with your card issuer (FTC).
- You can file a complaint with the DOT's Office of Aviation Consumer Protection.
Source: 14 CFR Part 260, Refunds for airline fare and ancillary service fees. Planning the trip? Compare costs with the Thanksgiving travel cost calculator.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a refund if my flight is canceled?
Yes. If the airline cancels your flight and you do not accept another flight or a voucher, you are entitled to a refund, even for a nonrefundable ticket.
How long a delay gets me a refund?
A significant change includes an arrival 3 hours or more later for domestic flights, or 6 hours or more for international flights. If you do not accept the changed flight, you can get a refund.
Does the airline have to give cash instead of a voucher?
Yes, if you are owed a refund it must go back in your original form of payment, unless you agree to something else. A voucher is only an option you can choose.
How fast must the refund come?
Within 7 business days for credit card purchases and 20 calendar days for other payment methods.
Does the airline have to pay me for a delay?
The federal refund rule does not require cash compensation for delays. Check your airline's customer service plan for what it offers, such as meal or hotel vouchers.