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| Passengers have to wait anxiously because of flight delays. Photo: Ankur Khandelwal, Unsplash |
By Julius Choudhury
Flight delays are a common problem that can cause inconvenience, stress, and unexpected expenses for passengers. While airlines are not legally obligated to compensate passengers for flight delays, there are situations in which passengers may be entitled to compensation under federal law. In this article, we will provide a detailed guide on how to get compensation for flight delays in the US.
In addition, if you are delayed for more than three hours due to a flight delay, you may be entitled to compensation under federal law. The amount of compensation you are entitled to depends on the length of your delay, the distance of your flight, and whether your flight is domestic or international. For domestic flights, you are entitled to compensation equal to the one-way fare, up to a maximum of $1,350. For international flights, you are entitled to compensation equal to the one-way fare, up to a maximum of $2,700.
Flight delays are a common problem that can cause inconvenience, stress, and unexpected expenses for passengers. While airlines are not legally obligated to compensate passengers for flight delays, there are situations in which passengers may be entitled to compensation under federal law. In this article, we will provide a detailed guide on how to get compensation for flight delays in the US.
Know Your Rights as a Passenger
As a passenger, it's important to know your rights in case of a flight delay. The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has set rules that require airlines to provide certain rights and benefits to passengers in case of flight delays. According to these rules, if your flight is delayed for more than two hours, the airline is required to provide you with food and water, access to restrooms, and access to medical treatment if necessary. If your flight is delayed overnight, the airline is required to provide you with hotel accommodations and transportation to and from the hotel.In addition, if you are delayed for more than three hours due to a flight delay, you may be entitled to compensation under federal law. The amount of compensation you are entitled to depends on the length of your delay, the distance of your flight, and whether your flight is domestic or international. For domestic flights, you are entitled to compensation equal to the one-way fare, up to a maximum of $1,350. For international flights, you are entitled to compensation equal to the one-way fare, up to a maximum of $2,700.
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| In order to receive compensation due to flight delay you should retain the necessary documentation to support your claim. Photo: Mariya Oliynyk, Unsplash |
Document Your Delay
To get compensation for your flight delay, you will need to document the details of your delay. This includes the time your flight was scheduled to depart, the time it actually departed, and the time it arrived at your final destination. You should also keep any receipts for expenses incurred as a result of the delay, such as food, transportation, and hotel accommodations.If possible, take pictures or videos of the departure board or any announcements made by the airline regarding the delay. This documentation will be important evidence to support your claim for compensation.
Contact the Airline
After experiencing a flight delay, it's important to contact the airline as soon as possible. You can do this by going to the airline's customer service desk at the airport or by calling the airline's customer service number. Be sure to provide the airline with your flight information, the reason for the delay, and any expenses you have incurred as a result of the delay.The airline may offer you compensation or travel vouchers as a goodwill gesture. However, if you are not satisfied with the compensation offered, you can request additional compensation under federal law.
File a Complaint with the DOT
If the airline refuses to provide you with compensation for your flight delay, you can file a complaint with the DOT. The DOT has a complaint form that you can fill out online, or you can file a complaint by mail. When filing your complaint, be sure to include all of the documentation you have gathered, including your flight information, the reason for the delay, and any expenses you have incurred as a result of the delay.The DOT will investigate your complaint and may take enforcement action against the airline if it finds that the airline violated its rules regarding flight delays. The DOT may also refer your complaint to the airline's customer service department for resolution.
Consider Legal Action
If all else fails, you may want to consider taking legal action against the airline. You can do this by hiring an attorney who specializes in airline compensation cases. Your attorney will be able to advise you on your legal rights and the likelihood of success in your case.It's important to note that taking legal action can be costly and time-consuming. Before deciding to take legal action, consider whether the potential compensation is worth the time and expense of pursuing legal action.
Flight delays can be a frustrating and stressful experience for passengers. However, if you are delayed for more than three hours due to a flight delay, you may be entitled to compensation under federal law. To get compensation for your flight delay, it's important to know your rights as a passenger, document your delay, contact the airline, file a complaint with the DOT, and consider legal action if necessary.
Read more: What Should You Do If Your Flight Is Delayed?
It's important to remember that airlines are not legally obligated to compensate passengers for flight delays in all circumstances. However, by following the steps outlined in this guide, you may be able to get compensation for your flight delay and reduce the financial impact of a delayed flight.
