Verified · checked Jun 2026
The US Department of Transportation requires airlines to provide refunds for cancelled or "significantly changed" flights, but does not mandate cash compensation for delays the way EU261 does. This is a real, structural difference in the law, not a gap in service.
Verified · checked Jun 2026 · recent development
This wasn't always settled. The DOT had proposed a rule that would have required $200-775 cash compensation for domestic delays caused by the airline — but withdrew the proposal in November 2025, citing "unnecessary regulatory burdens." So as of today, there's still no cash-for-delay mandate, but it's worth knowing this was actively considered and could resurface in future rulemaking.
Verified · checked Jun 2026
A DOT spokesperson has confirmed that accepting a meal voucher, hotel accommodation, or ground transportation when an airline cancels or significantly delays a flight does NOT waive your right to a refund. Airlines sometimes present these as alternatives to a refund — they're not. You can accept the amenities and still request your refund separately.
What counts as a "significant change"
Per DOT guidance, this generally includes: a departure or arrival time change of 3+ hours for domestic flights (6+ hours for international), a change in departure or arrival airport, an increase in the number of connections, a downgrade to a lower service class, or connections that are no longer reasonably achievable.
✓ You ARE entitled to
A full refund (not just a credit) if the airline cancels or significantly changes your flight and you choose not to fly. Some airlines also voluntarily offer meal/hotel vouchers for long delays, per their own contract of carriage — not law, but common practice for major carriers.
✗ You're generally NOT entitled to
Fixed cash compensation (like the €250-600 under EU261) purely for a delay, regardless of length, under US federal law. Some state-level consumer protection laws exist but are narrower and less commonly enforced for this specific issue.
When EU261 still applies to a "US flight"
If your trip departed from an EU/EEA airport — even if you're American and flying a US airline — EU261 can still apply. Example: a Lufthansa or United flight from Frankfurt to New York is covered, because it departs the EU. A United flight from New York to Frankfurt is not covered under EU261 by default (US airline, non-EU departure), though connecting itineraries can get complicated.
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