What to Do if Your Flight is Delayed in the US

Flight delays are an unfortunate part of air travel, but knowing what to do can save you time, money, and stress. In the US, airlines aren’t required by federal law to compensate passengers for delays, but that doesn’t mean you have no options.

1. Know your airline’s policy. Each carrier has its own rules. For example, Delta and American Airlines may offer meal vouchers for extended delays, while low-cost carriers may not. Always check their Contract of Carriage online.

2. Ask about rebooking options. If your delay makes you miss a connection, the airline should rebook you at no additional cost. Sometimes, they can even place you on a partner airline’s flight.

3. Keep receipts for extra expenses. If you need to pay for meals, hotels, or transport due to the delay, save your receipts. While the airline might not reimburse you automatically, these can help if you file a claim later.

4. Use travel insurance. Many credit cards and travel insurance plans cover delays over a certain number of hours, reimbursing you for food, lodging, and other costs.

5. Stay updated via the airline app. Gate changes, boarding times, and delay reasons often appear in the app before they’re announced at the gate.

While US law may not guarantee compensation for delays, persistence and knowledge of your rights can make a big difference. Always ask politely — but firmly — about your options.