Does a five-hour US domestic delay require cash compensation?

US federal rules do not impose a general EU-style fixed cash payment for an ordinary delay. A significant change may create a refund choice if you decline the trip; airline commitments are separate.

What to check

The route and operating carrier matter as much as the number of hours. Check which rule covered the flight on its travel date before using a compensation amount.

What to do next

Read the applicable country rule first, then send the airline the facts that support that specific claim.

Official sources

• U.S. DOT: Refunds
• U.S. DOT: Airline Cancellation and Delay Dashboard
• U.S. DOT: Bumping and oversales