Posted on February 6, 2025 

Airline Policies on Canceled and Delayed Flights Due to Weather, CBP, and Air Traffic Flight delays and cancellations can be frustrating, especially when they disrupt travel plans unexpectedly. Understanding your rights as a passenger is crucial to navigating these disruptions effectively. Airlines have their own policies regarding flight delays and cancellations due to various factors, including weather, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) procedures, and air traffic control issues. Additionally, each airline has dedicated reservation numbers for assistance. 

Weather-Related Delays and Cancellations When flights are delayed or canceled due to severe weather conditions, airlines are generally not required to compensate passengers. Weather-related disruptions are classified as "force majeure" or extraordinary circumstances beyond the airline’s control. However, airlines may provide rebooking options, meal vouchers, or overnight accommodations at their discretion, depending on the length of the delay and company policy. 

  

What Are Your Rights? 

You are entitled to a rebooking on the next available flight, though options may be limited in severe weather conditions. Some airlines may provide meal vouchers or hotel accommodations, but they are not legally required to do so. If your flight is canceled, you are entitled to a full refund, even for non-refundable tickets, if you choose not to be rebooked. Delays and Cancellations Due to CBP Procedures U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) processes incoming international flights and sometimes requires additional screening, which can lead to delays. These delays are typically beyond the airline’s control. What Are Your Rights? Airlines are not required to provide compensation for CBP-related delays. If a CBP-related issue leads to a missed connection, airlines may assist in rebooking but are not obligated to cover additional expenses. 

Passengers facing extended delays after deplaning should be provided with access to food, water, and restrooms. Air Traffic Control Delays Air traffic control (ATC) manages flight flow to ensure safety. Congestion, emergencies, and system failures can result in significant delays. What Are Your Rights? Airlines are not responsible for ATC delays but must keep passengers informed of the situation. If the delay is extensive, airlines may provide compensation such as meal vouchers or accommodations at their discretion. Passengers can request a refund if the delay leads to flight cancellation. Tarmac Delay Rules The DOT has specific rules for tarmac delays to protect passengers when they are stuck on a plane without the option to deplane. 

  

What Are Your Rights? 

Airlines must provide food, water, and working lavatories for tarmac delays over two hours. Domestic flights cannot remain on the tarmac for more than three hours, and international flights for more than four hours, without allowing passengers to deplane unless there are safety concerns. Airlines may face penalties for violating these rules. Airline Reservation Numbers If you experience a flight delay or cancellation, you can contact your airline’s reservation center for assistance. Here are some major airline customer service numbers: 

American Airlines: 1-800-433-7300 

Delta Air Lines: 1-800-221-1212 

United Airlines: 1-800-864-8331 

Southwest Airlines: 1-800-435-9792 

JetBlue Airways: 1-800-538-2583 

Alaska Airlines: 1-800-252-7522 

Spirit Airlines: 1-855-728-3555 

Frontier Airlines: 1-801-401-9000 

  

Tips for Handling Flight Disruptions  

• Check your airline’s policy: Each airline has different compensation and rebooking policies. 
• Sign up for flight alerts: Get real-time updates via text or email. 
• Know your refund rights: If your flight is canceled, you are entitled to a full refund, even for non-refundable tickets. 
• Use travel insurance: Travel insurance can cover additional costs, including hotel stays and meals during delays. 

Understanding your rights can help you make informed decisions when flight disruptions occur. While airlines may not always be legally required to provide compensation, being aware of your options can make the experience less stressful.