Hotels and meals after a cancellation: what is law and what is a promise
This is the biggest gap between what passengers expect and what the rules say.
The honest answerNo US federal rule requires airlines to provide meals, hotels or ground transportation after a delay or cancellation. Major airlines publish voluntary commitments in their customer service plans, almost always for disruptions they control, such as crew or maintenance problems.
When you have a good chance
Crew, maintenance or other airline-caused cancellations, especially overnight. Look up your airline's customer service plan, quote its own words, and ask in writing.
When you probably do not
Weather and air traffic control events such as a ground stop. Ask politely anyway; some airlines help.
How to ask
- Keep receipts. Be reasonable: standard hotel, normal meals.
- Ask before you spend when you can, and write down the agent's name or reference number.
- Submit the claim online with receipts.
Other places to get money back
- Your card's trip-delay benefit.
- Travel insurance, if you bought it.
- Hotels and rental companies: many will change dates free after a major disruption if you ask in writing. The kit includes the wording.
Sources: 14 CFR Part 260, 250.5, 259.4, DOT Aviation Consumer Protection. Rules can change; confirm for high-stakes claims.