Rossen Reports: Know your rights when airlines cancel your flight

If your flight gets canceled or significantly delayed, you have rights, and airlines owe you more than you might think.

Under new federal rules, if your flight is canceled or delayed by more than three hours domestically or six hours internationally, you’re entitled to a full cash refund. This also applies to changes like a different airport, extra connections, seat downgrades, or less accessible routes for travelers with disabilities.

Refunds must now be automatic, so you don’t have to ask or fill out forms. Additionally, airlines like Alaska, American, Delta, Hawaiian, JetBlue, and United will rebook you on a partner airline if you request it.

If you accept a rebooking but are stuck waiting, airlines must provide meal vouchers, hotel accommodations for overnight delays, and ground tra