Am I Entitled to a Refund?
Flights delayed and cancelled, we've seen that daily in the media. Upset travelers who lost a day of vacation, missed their cruise, a milestone birthday and even funerals. The big question all travelers have is, "Am I Entitled to a Refund?"
US Department of Transportation, otherwise known as DOT states the following:
🛬 Cancelled Flight: If the airline cancels your flight, regardless of the reason, and you choose not to travel you are entitled to a refund.
🛬 Change/Significant Delay: If there's a significant change or delay and you choose not to travel you are entitled to a refund. Now with that said, DOT has not defined what "significant" constitutes. It's a case by case decision.
🛬 Baggage Fees: If your bags are lost and declared lost by the airline, you're entitled to a refund.
Note: Airlines can make decisions on non refundable tickets, they are free to do so or they may issue a credit or travel voucher for future use on the airlines.
Cancelling a Ticket Reservation or Purchase within 24 hours of Booking:
If you're entitled to a refund request it in writing form an airline or a ticket agent, airlines are required to:
- allow you to cancel your reservation and receive a full refund without penalty for 24 hours OR
- allow you to place a ticket on hold for 24 hours at the quoted price
- airlines are not required to make any changes to your 24 hours hold tickets ie: date or name spelled incorrectly--fees can be applied.
- This policy is not applied if purchased through a Travel Agency--check terms
When will I receive my refund:
- Refunds are required within 7 business days if paid by credit card and 20 days if paid by cash or check.
For more information, click here.
Suitcase Gals Tip:
- Book directly with the airlines, it will save you a lot of aggravation in case you have a flight delay or cancellation
- Purchase Travel Insurance, it goes hand in hand with traveling
We don’t wish this upon our travelers, but in today’s world you are more prone to delays and cancellations. If you experience any inconveniences that alter your trip itinerary, have patience and react quickly. Don’t spend wasted time blaming your Travel Advisor, the Desk Agent or Call Center Agent. It’s not their fault.
Everyone is on your side! It’s better to be armed with information. Safe travels.
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