Flight disruption refunds are possible thanks to new FAA decision

Next time you experience a flight disruption, new airline rules could lead to a full refund.

Thanks to regulations made possible by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Act signed Under laws introduced by President Joe Biden, airlines must now robotically refund passengers when flights are canceled or significantly delayed.

“What you were getting by default was a travel credit,” said Kevin Brasler, editor in chief of Consumers Checkbook. “Now you’re entitled to a refund, and the refund has to be automatic.”

He added: “I think it will be a big benefit. And it really improves things because it removes a lot of the confusion about what happens when you’re entitled to a refund.”

Flight disruption refunds also include any taxes or additional fees, corresponding to seat selection. In addition, refunds will likely be issued in the identical manner by which the client paid. For each airlines and travel agents, it’s best to expect a refund inside seven business days in the event you paid by bank card. If the ticket was purchased with money or check, the airline courier has 30 days to process the refund.

On the opposite hand, experts emphasize how vital it’s for consumers to inform airlines if their trip is canceled due to a delay quite than a no-show, as different rules may apply to refunds.

“Ultimately, it’s the consumers’ money,” said John Breyault of the National Consumers League. “And they paid for a service that the airlines didn’t provide. Then they have to give the money back.”

Another change that may include the flight disruption reimbursement, under the new ruling, is that families will not have to pay the fee in the event that they are traveling with young children. Typically, passengers would have to pay at the least $95 more on international flights and greater than $35 on domestic flights to sit with their children.

The new rules are expected to go into effect in the autumn, meaning they will likely be ready just in time for the vacation travel season.