U.S. DOT Refund Rules (Reference)
Last updated: 2026-04-27
This page is a neutral reference summary of core U.S. DOT refund, schedule change, tarmac delay, and baggage delay timing rules.
1. Refunds for cancellations
When an airline cancels a flight and the passenger declines the offered alternative, a refund is required.
2. Significant delay / change
Published DOT reference thresholds commonly cited are:
- 3 hours for domestic itineraries
- 6 hours for international itineraries
Examples listed in DOT guidance include:
- Schedule shift
- Airport change
- Added connections
- Downgrade
3. Tarmac delay rules
- 3-hour limit for domestic flights
- 4-hour limit for international flights
- Exceptions include safety, security, and air traffic control constraints.
4. Baggage delay refunds
- 12 hours for domestic itineraries
- 15 hours for international itineraries under 12 hours in length
- 30 hours for international itineraries of 12 hours or more