# 15 · US flight: refund request (cancelled or significantly changed flight)

**Use when:** your flight to/from/within the US was **cancelled** or **significantly changed or delayed**, and you **did not** accept the rebooking or a voucher.

**The rule (US DOT, in effect since October 28, 2024):** airlines must give you a **cash refund** (to your original form of payment) when a flight is cancelled or significantly changed and you choose not to travel or accept alternatives. A significant delay is defined as **more than 3 hours for domestic** and **more than 6 hours for international** flights. Refunds are due within **7 business days** for card purchases and **20 calendar days** for other payment methods.

**What US law does NOT give you:** fixed cash compensation for delays like EU261. Some airlines have their own commitments (meals, hotels, rebooking). DOT's Airline Customer Service Dashboard (flightrights.gov) lists what each major airline commits to.

**Don't accept a voucher or travel credit if you want cash.** Accepting alternative transport or a voucher can end your right to the refund.

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## The message (airline refund form, or email to customer relations)

**Subject:** Refund request · [FLIGHT NUMBER] on [DATE] · confirmation [CODE]

Hello,

My flight [FLIGHT NUMBER] from [ORIGIN] to [DESTINATION] on [DATE] (confirmation [CODE]) was [cancelled / delayed by X hours / changed from TIME to TIME]. I did not accept the rebooking or any voucher and did not travel on this itinerary.

Under the US Department of Transportation refund rule, I request a full refund of [TICKET AMOUNT + SEAT/BAG FEES PAID] to my original form of payment.

[IF A BAG WAS SIGNIFICANTLY DELAYED: I also request a refund of the checked bag fee of [AMOUNT]; my bag was delivered on [DATE/TIME].]

Please confirm the refund and its expected date.

Thank you,
[NAME] · [EMAIL] · [PHONE]

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## If the airline doesn't pay
- File a complaint with the **US Department of Transportation** (Air Consumer Protection: transportation.gov/airconsumer).
- If you paid by credit card and the airline refuses a refund it owes, dispute the charge (template 06).
- **Abroad / EU airline / EU departure?** Also check template 14: EU261 compensation may apply on top.