You’ve packed your bags, arrived early at the airport, cleared security — and now, you’re stuck staring at the departures board as your flight gets delayed… again. Or worse, canceled.
If you’ve ever wondered, "Do airlines owe me anything for this?" — you’re not alone. Thousands of travelers search every day for answers about flight delay compensation, cancellation refunds, and passenger rights in New Jersey and nationwide. Good news: You may be entitled to real money back, meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, or other compensation—if you know your rights and how to ask.
In this article, we’ll break down exactly what the law requires airlines to provide when they delay or cancel your flight, the difference between federal law and airline policies, and how you can actually claim what you’re owed when stranded at Newark Liberty International Airport or any U.S. airport.
What Laws Protect You?
U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Regulations. Under 14 CFR Part 259 and recent rule changes effective October 28, 2024, the U.S. DOT now requires airlines to offer automatic refunds if:
- Your domestic flight is delayed three hours or more
- Your international flight is delayed six hours or more
- Your flight is canceled, and you choose not to travel
- The airline makes a significant schedule change that affects your travel plans
(DOT Refund Rule – 14 CFR Part 259)
Airlines must refund:
- Your ticket cost
- Any fees paid for checked bags
- Any fees paid for ancillary services you didn't receive (seat selection, Wi-Fi, etc.)
Refunds must be processed within 7 business days if you paid by credit card, or within 20 days for other payment methods.
What About Compensation for Delays?
Unfortunately, there is no federal law that requires U.S. airlines to compensate passengers for delays caused by weather, air traffic control, or other factors beyond the airline’s control.
However, if the delay is within the airline’s control (staffing issues, mechanical problems, scheduling errors), many airlines have their own policies offering:
✅ Meal vouchers
✅ Hotel accommodations
✅ Ground transportation to a hotel
✅ Travel credits or bonus miles
Major Airline Compensation Policies at Newark Airport
If you’re a traveler flying out of Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), not only are you protected under these federal guidelines, but almost all of the major airline’s Customer Service Policies have some kind of compensation.
Here’s a quick guide to what the main airlines operating out of Newark typically offer when flights are delayed or canceled:
United Airlines (EWR’s largest carrier)
- Rebooking on the next available flight
- Meal vouchers and hotel accommodations if the delay is within United’s control
-
Refunds for significant delays or cancellations
United Customer Commitment
American Airlines
- Rebooking on the next flight
- Meal or hotel vouchers for controllable delays
-
Refunds for significant schedule changes
American Airlines Service Plan
Delta Air Lines
- Rebooking options
- Vouchers and hotel stays for delays under their control
-
Refunds for significant delays or cancellations
Delta Delay & Cancellation Policy
JetBlue Airways
JetBlue has one of the most passenger-friendly policies, called the Customer Bill of Rights:
- Travel credits from $50 to $200 based on delay length
-
Refunds and rebooking options
JetBlue Customer Bill of Rights
Southwest Airlines
- Free rebooking
- Travel vouchers for controllable delays over 3 hours
-
Refund option
Southwest Delay & Cancellation Policy
How to Actually Get Compensation
The airlines won’t always volunteer this information—you need to ask.
Here’s how:
- Find Out the Cause: Ask the gate agent or customer service if the delay is within the airline’s control.
- Request Compensation: If it is, politely ask for meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, or travel credits.
- Use Social Media: Airlines often respond faster to direct messages on X (formerly Twitter).
- Request a Refund: If your flight is canceled or significantly delayed, you are legally entitled to a refund under DOT rules.
- Document Everything: Keep boarding passes, receipts, and written communication.
Can You Sue the Airline?
In most cases, the federal refund rule preempts state law claims. However, if an airline fails to follow the DOT rules or engages in deceptive business practices, you may have legal options under New Jersey’s Consumer Fraud Act or federal law. An experienced consumer rights attorney can help you evaluate your case.
Bottom Line: Know Your Rights and Don’t Leave Money on the Table
Flight delays and cancellations are frustrating, but you’re not powerless. Federal regulations and airline policies are clear: You’re entitled to refunds, and sometimes meals, hotels, or flight credits—especially if the delay is the airline’s fault.
Next time you’re stranded at Newark Airport or any U.S. airport, use this guide to get what you’re owed.
If you believe your rights were violated or an airline refused to compensate you properly, contact Semeraro & Fahrney, LLC today.
We can help you enforce your rights and hold airlines accountable.
