ORLANDO, Fla. – With airlines projecting nearly 53 million passengers traveling for the holidays, there’s bound to be setbacks like long lines, delays or cancelations but here’s what to know.
Here’s a list of mandates from the Department of Transportation and a breakdown of what each airline will offer, if your travel hits some snags.
COMMITMENTS FOR CONTROLLABLE CANCELATIONS
COMMITMENTS FOR CONTROLLABLE DELAYS
What counts as uncontrolled vs. controlled flight issues?
UNCONTROLLABLE (airlines aren’t legally required to provide hotels/meals but must offer cash refunds for cancelations/significant changes):
- Severe weather
- Air Traffic Control (ATC) issues
- Natural disasters
- Security threats
CONTROLLED:
- Maintenance
- Crew/Staffing
- Baggage Loading
- Fueling
- Cabin Cleaning
Big takeaway: Always ask the airline for the reason for the disruption, ideally in writing, to understand your entitlements and if you do have to pay any expenses out of pocket that are related to interrupted air travel, keep your receipt.
You can still ask the airline’s customer service to work with you on compensation. The outcome will vary.