Effective Oct. 19, the rule creates a new reporting category for 10 causes of delays and cancellations. Refund rights remain unchanged.
Starting Oct. 19, a new Department of Transportation rule will reclassify certain flight disruptions, which could impact the assistance airlines offer to stranded passengers.
The rule introduces a new category for reporting delays and cancellations to the DOT, covering 10 specific cases:
- Aircraft cleaning necessitated by the death of a passenger
- Aircraft damage caused by extreme weather, foreign object debris, or sabotage
- A baggage or cargo loading delay caused by an outage of a bag system not controlled by a carrier or its contractor
- Cybersecurity attacks (provided that the air carrier is in compliance with applicable cybersecurity regulations)
- A shutdown or system failure of government systems that directly affects the ability of an air carrier to conduct flights safely and is unexpected
- Overheated brakes due to a safety incident resulting in the use of emergency procedures
- Unscheduled maintenance, including in response to an airworthiness directive, manifesting outside a scheduled maintenance program that cannot be deferred or must be addressed before flight
- An emergency that required medical attention through no fault of the carrier
- The removal of an unruly passenger
- An airport closure due to the presence of volcanic ash, wind, or wind shear
These changes were singled out by Congress as part of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024.
Until now, these situations were classified as being within the airline’s control. By moving them into a separate category, the DOT says its data will become more accurate. However, the agency warns this change could affect the assistance airlines provide in these situations, such as meals and hotel accommodations.
Refund rights remain unchanged. If an airline cancels or significantly changes a flight, passengers can still receive a refund if they decline the alternative and choose not to travel, regardless of the reason.
To prepare for these changes, travelers are advised to plan ahead. Checking the DOT’s airline customer service dashboard before booking can provide insight into what each airline offers in terms of meals, hotels, and rebooking during significant delays and cancellations. While these are for controllable situations, the dashboard can still help travelers compare the support airlines promise.
Choosing earlier flights is recommended, as delays tend to accumulate throughout the day, making it easier to rebook if needed. Travelers who use travel credit cards or purchase travel insurance should review their benefits and understand what is covered, what is not, and what documentation is required for claims.
Packing efficiently is also key. If you must check bags, ensure essential items, medications, and overnight necessities are packed in your carry-on or personal item in case of separation from checked luggage.
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