How long does an airline have to respond to a complaint?

Filing a complaint with an airline or a ticket agent.
DOT requires airlines to acknowledge consumer complaints within 30 days of receiving them and to send consumers written responses addressing these complaints within 60 days of receiving them (30 days for disability-related complaints).



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Airlines are required to give you information on how to file complaints. Airlines need to acknowledge written complaints within 30 days and respond within 60 days.

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Air travel isn't always fun. Things go wrong. And while you're unlikely to get compensated because a summer thunderstorm made your plane late, it's often worth complaining to the airlines and seeing what you can get for your travel inconveniences.

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It's often best to email or write to the airline's consumer office at its corporate headquarters. DOT requires airlines that fly to, from, or within the United States to state on their websites how and where complaints can be submitted.

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Individuals can sue airlines in small claims court for damages caused by an airline's negligence. For example, damages can arise from personal injuries (for example a broken arm) or from emotional distress caused by an airline's negligent treatment.

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For example, if your complaint is about a delayed flight, include the specifics about your flight, the delay, your expenses due to the delays, etc. Ask for compensation or make a demand using clear, concise, and professional language.

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The process is quick and affordable. You may file a lawsuit against an airline in small claims court as long as the amount you intend to sue for is within the small claims court limit (on average $10,000 or less). Up next: Learn more on how to sue an airline in small claims court.

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If you contact the airline or ticket agent to obtain a required refund and you are refused that refund, you should file a complaint against the airline or ticket agent with the Department at https://secure.dot.gov/air-travel-complaint.

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In the event an airline refuses to acknowledge your claim, you need to seek legal advice or file a complaint with the airport's authority. However, you need to understand the reasons for the denial of the claim. Sometimes the extraordinary circumstances are legitimate.

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According to the DOT, airlines are not required to provide money or other compensation when flights get delayed, regardless of how late they are. However, when a “significant delay” takes place, passengers may receive refunds for seat selection fees or checked baggage fees.

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According to the DOT, airlines are not required to provide money or other compensation when flights get delayed, regardless of how late they are. However, when a “significant delay” takes place, passengers may receive refunds for seat selection fees or checked baggage fees.

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The three airlines with the lowest number of complaints per passengers last year were Horizon, SkyWest, and Mesa.

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Airline liability
  • International laws for air travel.
  • Death or injury to passengers.
  • Lost or damaged luggage.
  • Delayed passengers and luggage.
  • Missing or damaged luggage.
  • Claiming compensation.


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Southwest Airlines passenger sues airline for failing to offer 'prompt refunds' after travel meltdown.

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