Tell us what happened, which airline, and whether it was the airline's fault or weather. We'll show you exactly what you're owed under US DOT rules — including refund rights, cash compensation for bumping, and what extras the airline must provide.
Flight Compensation Calculator
What does the airline owe you? Find out in 30 seconds.
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1. What happened/2. Airline/3. Cause
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US vs EU compensation rules
Passenger rights differ significantly between the US and Europe:
- ·US (DOT rules): Full refund for cancellations and significant delays. Cash compensation only for involuntary bumping (up to $1,550). Meals/hotel for controllable delays.
- ·EU (EC 261): Fixed compensation of €250–€600 for delays over 3 hours, plus refund or rebooking. Applies to flights departing from EU airports on any airline, or arriving in the EU on an EU airline.
Controllable vs uncontrollable delays
This distinction matters for what extras the airline owes you beyond a refund:
- ·Controllable (mechanical, crew, overbooking, IT): airline must provide meals, hotel, and ground transport
- ·Uncontrollable (weather, ATC, security): refund yes, but meals/hotel are voluntary
In both cases, you can always choose a full refund if the delay is 3+ hours domestic or 6+ hours international.
How to claim compensation
- Document everything — screenshots of departure boards, boarding pass, notifications
- Contact the airline first — call, use the app, or email customer relations
- Reference the DOT rule — cite the specific regulation (e.g., 14 CFR Part 260 for refunds)
- File a DOT complaint if ignored — airlines take these seriously because they're public record