A major winter storm swept across the United States starting Saturday, canceling 12,200 flights and stranding travelers nationwide. Weather forecasters warned that damage from the storm could rival that of a hurricane, with ice and snow pounding multiple regions.
Passengers facing cancellations have a legal right to refunds, even for non-refundable tickets. Airlines must refund fares within seven business days for credit-card purchases or 20 calendar days for cash or check payments, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation.
What passengers can expect during flight cancellations
When a flight is canceled, most airlines will rebook passengers on a later flight at no additional charge, depending on available seats. Passengers can contact airline reservations staff by phone or through the airline’s website or app.
Some major carriers are waiving change fees for storm-affected passengers. American Airlines is waiving change fees for those affected by the winter storm and adding extra flights around the country to help passengers reach their destinations after the weather passes.
Refund rights
If a flight is canceled and passengers no longer wish to travel or have found another way to reach their destination, the airline must refund their money—even for non-refundable tickets. This requirement applies regardless of why the flight was canceled.
Passengers are also entitled to refunds for any bag fees, seat upgrades, or other extras they purchased but did not use on the canceled flight.
For credit-card payments, refunds are due within seven business days after a passenger declines an airline offer for another flight or a voucher. For cash or check payments, the timeline extends to 20 calendar days, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation.
What airlines are not required to cover
U.S. airlines are not required to provide meals or lodging during cancellations caused by weather events classified as uncontrollable. However, each airline has its own policies for assisting passengers stranded by cancellations the Transportation Department classifies as controllable—those caused by maintenance issues, crew shortages, or computer outages. The Transportation Department maintains a website showing what each airline promises in those situations.
Additional travel strategies
Kyle Potter, executive editor of Thrifty Traveler, recommends booking a backup flight if weather forecasts are threatening. Some airlines allow passengers to receive a full refund as long as they cancel within 24 hours of booking, Potter said.
Before heading to the airport, passengers should check their airline’s app or website to confirm their flight remains scheduled. Cancellations can occur hours or even days before a flight’s departure time.