Travelers with plans to fly amid the government shutdown are searching for refund policies related to flight delays or cancellations, as well as information on what resources are available if a booking is significantly impacted by the ongoing ripple effects and airspace closures.
The Federal Aviation Administration will reduce flight capacity by 10% at 40 major airports across the country, officials announced on Wednesday, which could cut thousands of flights per day.
The restrictions set to go into effect Friday morning will impact Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson, Boston Logan, all three New York City-area airports, Chicago O’Hare and many others.
Click here to see the full list of airports.
Here’s what travelers facing potential snafus need to know in order to rebook or get a refund with ease.
Refund policies for flight delays or cancellations
The Department of Transportation set out new rules regarding refunds last year, which are required by law for purchased airline tickets and fees for related services, making them automatic, prompt, in the form of the original payment and for the full amount.
According to the policy, travelers also have the option to accept alternative arrangements or travel credits if their original travel is impacted.