What is a significant schedule change under US DOT rules?

DOT lists material changes including a three-hour domestic or six-hour international shift and certain airport, connection or cabin changes. The traveler must also decline the changed trip or alternative.

What to check

Check whether the flights were on one ticket, what the airline offered, and whether you agreed to give up a seat or take a new flight. Small differences in those facts can change the claim path.

What to do next

Contact the operating airline while the remaining itinerary can still be changed. Keep a copy of its offer and your response.

Official sources

• U.S. DOT: Refunds