Passengers are now entitled to receive automatic cash refunds from airlines for cancellations and delays, according to a recent announcement by the Department of Transportation, which has caused a wave of excitement among air travelers.
While airlines can still offer another flight or a travel credit, consumers have the right to refuse the offer.
Currently, airlines decide when a delay qualifies for a refund. However, the administration is changing that by stating a significant delay is at least three hours for domestic flights and six hours for international ones.
The rule will also extend to refunds of checked-bag fees if the baggage is not delivered within 12 hours for domestic flights or 15 to 30 hours for international flights. Additionally, it covers fees for services like seat selection or internet access if the airline fails to provide these services.
Furthermore, airline and ticket agents must display upfront fees for checked and carry-on bags and cancellation or reservation changes. These fees must be prominently shown on their websites and accessible to customers when they check prices and schedules.
Users on social media have been quick to share their reactions to these changes, expressing both relief and appreciation for the new rules.
Airlines will now be required to give automatic cash refunds for canceled and delayed flights https://t.co/d71z7oqEqI
— The Associated Press (@AP) April 24, 2024
Me claiming I lost a bag full of LV & Versace when it was only Primark & SHEIN in the bag pic.twitter.com/07WfTNkswm
— DemoLa (@DemoOfUK) April 24, 2024
All airline ceo’s watching this right now: pic.twitter.com/vJWuFhL4je
— CLIPS (@yourclipss) April 24, 2024
Its about time they enforced this. They also need to start feeding people that get stuck for many hours.
— Evan Dyer (@EvanLeeDyer) April 24, 2024
this is how it was always supposed to be tbh pic.twitter.com/wY8OjbgZRK
— that girl. (@prettygirlxclub) April 24, 2024
that refund coming 7-10 business days pic.twitter.com/5jPUHlSNrY
— Queens Kid (@madein_queens) April 24, 2024
Automatic refunds = get ready to pay more for your airplane tickets.
— The Rogue Politico (@politikaljunki) April 24, 2024
