How Long Does a Flight Have to Be Delayed for Rights?

Understanding Flight Delay Thresholds: When Do Rights Kick In?

When a flight is delayed, passengers often wonder about their entitlements. The critical question is: how long does a flight have to be delayed for significant passenger rights or compensation to apply? The answer isn't a single, universal number; it depends heavily on the airline's contract of carriage, the reason for the delay, and the specific regulations governing your flight, such as those in the EU (EC 261/2004) or the US Department of Transportation (DOT) rules. While minor delays might only cause inconvenience, substantial disruptions often unlock a set of passenger protections.

• Delay duration dictates specific passenger rights and compensation eligibility.
• Airline policies and regulatory rules define delay thresholds.
• Longer delays typically grant more significant passenger entitlements.
• Reasons for delay greatly influence applicable rights.

A flight delay refers to a departure significantly later than the scheduled time. The 'significance' is the key, as not all delays are treated equally. Airlines establish internal thresholds, and regulatory bodies set minimums for compensation or care. For instance, some regions mandate specific support like meals or accommodation after a certain number of hours, while others link compensation to delays exceeding three hours upon arrival at the final destination.

It's important to differentiate between a delay and a cancellation. While both disrupt travel plans, the rules and potential remedies can differ. A delay typically means the flight eventually operates, albeit late, whereas a cancellation means the flight does not operate at all. However, the financial or service implications of a severe delay can sometimes mirror those of a cancellation.

Defining 'Significant' Delay

What constitutes a 'significant' delay is a common point of confusion. Regulatory bodies often provide concrete figures for when passenger rights become active. For example, under EU Regulation 261/2004, significant delays are often tied to the arrival time at the final destination. These regulations are designed to provide a baseline of protection for travelers, ensuring they are not left stranded or without recourse when airlines fail to adhere to schedules, barring exceptional circumstances.

The duration threshold often dictates the level of assistance a passenger is entitled to. Shorter delays might trigger immediate obligations for care, such as water or communication access. Longer delays can escalate to include meal vouchers, hotel accommodation, and compensation payments. This tiered approach acknowledges the increasing burden and inconvenience placed upon passengers as delay times extend.

Regulatory Frameworks: EU, US, and Beyond

Different jurisdictions have established distinct rules governing flight delays, creating a complex landscape for international travelers. Understanding these frameworks is crucial to knowing your rights based on your flight's origin, destination, and the operating airline.

European Union (EC 261/2004)

The EU's Regulation 261/2004 is one of the most comprehensive passenger rights regulations globally. It applies to flights departing from an EU airport, and flights arriving at an EU airport operated by an EU airline. The regulation specifies thresholds for compensation based on the length of the delay at the final destination:

• 3-hour delay or more: If your flight arrives at its final destination at least three hours later than scheduled, you may be entitled to compensation. The amount varies based on flight distance.
• 5-hour delay or more: You have the right to abandon your journey and request a full refund of your ticket, or a return flight to your initial point of departure, if one is available.
• 2-hour delay or more (for flights of specific distances): Before abandonment, passengers are entitled to care and assistance, including meals, refreshments, and two free phone calls, emails, or faxes. This care obligation kicks in earlier than the compensation trigger.

It's vital to remember that compensation under EC 261/2004 is not payable if the delay was caused by 'extraordinary circumstances' (e.g., severe weather, air traffic control strikes, security risks) that could not have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken. This is a key defense airlines may use to avoid payouts.

United States (DOT Regulations)

In the United States, passenger rights are less prescriptive regarding specific delay durations and compensation amounts. The Department of Transportation (DOT) mandates that airlines must establish their own "Contracts of Carriage" that outline their policies for delays and cancellations. However, the DOT does require airlines to provide specific amenities for significant delays, such as meals and hotel accommodations, especially if the delay is the airline's fault and results in an overnight stay.

There is no automatic right to financial compensation for delays under US federal law, unlike in the EU. However, if a flight is significantly delayed or cancelled, passengers are generally entitled to a refund if they choose not to travel on the modified itinerary. Airlines are obligated to inform passengers about delays and to offer rebooking on the next available flight, either their own or potentially on another carrier, though this is often subject to the airline's policy and availability.

A critical point in the US is that compensation is generally tied to cancellations or significant schedule changes rather than just the duration of a delay. If a flight is delayed, you typically still need to show up at the airport as scheduled unless the airline explicitly instructs otherwise or cancels the flight. If your flight gets delayed, do you still show up on time? Yes, it's best to assume the flight will depart closer to the original time or be updated if the delay is severe.

Other Regions

Many other countries have their own passenger rights regulations. For example, Canada's Air Passenger Protection Regulations provide specific entitlements based on the size of the airline and the reason for the delay. Flights delayed due to reasons within the airline's control (but not extraordinary circumstances) can lead to compensation, while those due to factors outside the airline's control might not. Similar to the US, Canada also mandates care and assistance for significant delays.

Navigating these varying regulations can be challenging. Travelers should familiarize themselves with the rules applicable to their specific itinerary, as a delay's impact on rights can differ dramatically depending on the departure and arrival locations and the airline's base of operation. For instance, can a delayed flight move back up? While technically possible, it's rare, and airlines usually communicate updated departure times, but checking real-time status is always wise.

Airline Policies: The Contract of Carriage

Beyond government regulations, each airline has its own Contract of Carriage. This legally binding document, which you agree to when purchasing a ticket, details the airline's specific policies regarding delays, cancellations, and what passengers can expect in terms of service and compensation. While regulations set minimum standards, an airline's Contract of Carriage can sometimes offer more generous provisions.

The Contract of Carriage is the primary document outlining an airline's commitment to its passengers. It covers everything from baggage allowances to how they handle disruptions. When a flight delay occurs, this contract is the first place to look for details on what the airline is obligated to provide. This might include provisions for meal vouchers, hotel accommodation, or rebooking options that go beyond the regulatory minimums.

What to Expect for Different Delay Durations

Airlines typically classify delays into categories, and their policies often align with these classifications. While precise thresholds vary:

• Short Delays (e.g., under 1-2 hours): Often, no specific compensation or extensive amenities are provided, beyond perhaps keeping passengers informed. The focus is on getting the flight underway as quickly as possible.
• Medium Delays (e.g., 2-4 hours): Passengers might receive drink and snack vouchers, or access to communicate with family or colleagues.
• Long Delays (e.g., 4+ hours) or Overnight Delays: These are more likely to trigger entitlements such as meal vouchers, hotel accommodation, and transportation to/from the hotel.

The reason for the delay is paramount. If the delay is within the airline's control (e.g., mechanical issues, crew scheduling problems), passengers are more likely to receive compensation and assistance. If the delay is due to 'extraordinary circumstances' (e.g., severe weather, air traffic control restrictions, security threats), airlines are often absolved of providing financial compensation, though they may still offer care and assistance as a goodwill gesture or due to specific regional laws.

Always check the airline's official website for their current Contract of Carriage before traveling, especially if you have a flight scheduled during a period prone to disruptions.

Reimbursement and Refunds

If my flight gets delayed, can I get a refund? This is a frequent question. Under most regulations and airline contracts, if a delay is substantial (often defined as several hours, or if it results in a cancellation and you choose not to travel), you are entitled to a refund for the unused portion of your ticket. This applies even if the ticket is non-refundable. The refund should cover the cost of the flight segment that was significantly delayed or cancelled.

Furthermore, if you incur expenses due to a delay (e.g., necessary meals, toiletries for an overnight stay), you might be eligible for reimbursement. Keep all receipts and submit a claim to the airline afterward, referencing their Contract of Carriage and any applicable regulations. While airlines must provide care for certain delays, direct reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses is often processed through a claims system.

→ Can a Delayed Flight Move Back Up?

The process for claiming refunds or reimbursements typically involves contacting the airline's customer service department or filling out a specific form on their website. Be prepared to provide your booking reference, flight details, and evidence of the delay and any expenses incurred. The success of your claim will depend on the specific circumstances of the delay and the airline's policies.

It is essential to understand that an airline delay does not automatically mean you are entitled to compensation. The length of the delay, its cause, and your specific route all play a role in determining your rights.

Causes of Delays and Their Impact on Rights

The reasons behind a flight delay are pivotal in determining passenger entitlements. Airlines distinguish between delays within their control and those caused by circumstances beyond their influence. This distinction directly affects whether you are eligible for compensation, refunds, or only basic care.

Factors Within Airline Control

Delays attributed to the airline's operational decisions or equipment are generally seen as within their control. These can include:

• Crewing issues: Problems with pilot or cabin crew availability, including scheduling conflicts, rest period requirements, or late crew arrivals.
• Aircraft maintenance: Unscheduled mechanical problems discovered during pre-flight checks or ongoing maintenance issues that ground a plane.
• Operational decisions: Issues like slow boarding processes, aircraft de-icing (if not due to weather), or errors in flight planning.
• Airline IT system failures: Problems with booking systems, check-in systems, or flight operations software.

When a delay stems from these causes, passengers have a stronger case for compensation, especially under regulations like EC 261/2004. The airline is expected to manage its resources and equipment effectively to maintain its schedule. If they fail to do so, they are typically liable for the inconvenience caused, provided the delay meets the required duration thresholds.

Factors Beyond Airline Control (Extraordinary Circumstances)

These are events that are unforeseeable, unavoidable, and external to the airline's operations. Common examples include:

• Severe weather conditions: Heavy fog, snowstorms, thunderstorms, high winds, or volcanic ash clouds that make flying unsafe. Do high winds cause flight delays? Yes, significantly high winds can make takeoffs and landings perilous, leading to delays or cancellations.
• Air traffic control (ATC) restrictions: ATC may impose delays due to congestion, emergencies, or operational issues at airports or in airspace.
• Security threats: Any situation posing a risk to flight safety, such as bomb threats or political instability.
• Strikes by external parties: Strikes by airport staff, air traffic controllers, or ground handlers (but typically not airline employees, as those are often considered within the airline's control).
• Medical emergencies: A passenger or crew member requiring urgent medical attention mid-flight or before departure, necessitating a diversion or delay.

In cases of extraordinary circumstances, airlines are generally not obligated to pay financial compensation. However, they may still be required to provide care and assistance (like meals or accommodation) depending on the length of the delay and regional regulations. Passengers cannot claim compensation if the delay is deemed an extraordinary circumstance.

It is crucial to ascertain the official reason for your delay. Airlines will often state the cause, but if you suspect it is miscategorized, you may need to investigate further or dispute the claim.

Can an Airline Delay a Flight and Then Undelay It?

Yes, it is possible for an airline to initially delay a flight and then later change its status back to on-time or a different, less severe delay. This can happen if the issue causing the delay is resolved faster than anticipated. For example, a minor mechanical fix might be completed quickly, or a weather system might pass sooner than forecast. However, if a flight has been significantly delayed beyond a certain threshold (e.g., three hours for compensation purposes under EC 261/2004), the rights triggered by that initial significant delay may still apply, even if the flight eventually departs sooner than originally projected or if the flight gets delayed can i get a refund based on the initial significant delay. Always check the final arrival time against the original scheduled arrival time.

Can a delayed flight move back up? While it's technically possible for a flight's departure time to be moved forward if the delay is resolved early, it's rare, especially for significant delays. Airlines usually communicate updated departure times and passengers should rely on the latest information provided. If a flight is officially delayed by a substantial amount, and then the departure time is brought forward but still results in a significant delay upon arrival, the passenger rights associated with the arrival delay will apply. The crucial factor remains the final arrival time compared to the scheduled arrival time.

Passenger Actions During and After a Delay

When faced with a flight delay, your immediate actions and follow-up can significantly impact your ability to claim entitlements. Staying informed, documenting everything, and knowing your rights are key strategies for navigating these disruptive situations effectively.

Immediate Steps at the Airport

When you are informed of a delay, the first step is to remain calm and gather information. Approach the airline's gate agents or customer service desk. They should provide:

• The estimated length of the delay.
• The reason for the delay.
• Information on what amenities (food vouchers, accommodation) you are entitled to based on the delay duration and cause.

If the delay is substantial, ask specifically about your rights regarding meals, refreshments, and accommodation. If the delay is overnight or very long, inquire about hotel arrangements and transportation. Keep all communication from the airline, including emails and text messages, as these serve as evidence of the delay and the airline's response (or lack thereof).

If your flight is significantly delayed, always ask the airline staff for clarification on your rights and what assistance they are providing.

If your flight gets delayed, do I still show up on time? Generally, yes. Unless the airline explicitly cancels the flight or advises you not to come, you should proceed to the airport according to the latest schedule updates. However, if the delay is projected to be very long, or if it leads to a cancellation, you may have the option to rebook or seek a refund. Always check your flight status regularly through the airline's app or website.

Documenting the Delay

Thorough documentation is critical for any subsequent claims. This includes:

• Keep your boarding pass and booking confirmation.
• Note down the original scheduled departure and arrival times, and the actual departure and arrival times.
• Take photos of departure boards showing the delay status.
• Save all communications with the airline (emails, screenshots of chat logs, reference numbers for calls).
• Collect receipts for any expenses incurred due to the delay (meals, toiletries, hotel if you had to book it yourself).

This evidence will be invaluable if you need to file a formal complaint or claim for compensation or reimbursement. It helps prove the extent of the delay and the direct impact it had on your travel plans and finances.

Filing a Claim

If you believe you are entitled to compensation or reimbursement, the process typically begins with filing a claim directly with the airline. Most airlines have a dedicated customer relations or claims department. You will likely need to submit a claim form along with supporting documentation.

If the airline rejects your claim or fails to respond within a reasonable timeframe, you can escalate the matter. This might involve contacting the relevant regulatory body in the country where the incident occurred or where the airline is based. For example, if you flew with an EU airline and are claiming under EC 261/2004, you might contact the National Enforcement Body (NEB) of the relevant EU country. In the US, you can file a complaint with the DOT.

When submitting a claim, be specific about the regulation or policy you believe applies and clearly state the outcome you are seeking (e.g., financial compensation, refund, reimbursement).

→ Flight Delays: What You're Owed & Your Passenger Rights

Can i upgrade my companion voucher flight? Typically, companion voucher upgrades are subject to availability and the specific terms and conditions of the voucher. While a flight delay doesn't usually affect your eligibility for an upgrade using a companion voucher, the availability of upgrade seats might change if the flight is reconfigured or if other passengers are moved. It's best to confirm upgrade eligibility and availability with the airline directly.

Common Misconceptions About Delayed Flights

The complexities of flight operations and passenger rights lead to several common misunderstandings regarding delays. Clarifying these points can help passengers navigate disruptions with more accurate expectations and knowledge.

Misconception 1: All Delays Equal Compensation

Many travelers assume that any flight delay, regardless of length or cause, automatically entitles them to financial compensation. This is far from true. As detailed earlier, compensation is typically contingent on the delay meeting specific duration thresholds (e.g., three hours or more upon arrival in the EU) and being caused by factors within the airline's control. Delays due to weather, air traffic control, or security issues are often considered extraordinary circumstances, for which compensation is not payable.

Misconception 2: Compensation is Automatic

Even when a delay qualifies for compensation, airlines do not automatically issue payments. Passengers must actively file a claim with the airline, providing all necessary documentation. The airline will then process the claim, which can sometimes take several weeks or months. It requires proactive effort from the passenger to receive their due compensation.

Misconception 3: A Delay Means You Can Just Not Show Up

If a flight is delayed, it does not automatically mean you are free to abandon your travel plans without consequence. For shorter delays, you are still expected to travel. For longer delays, regulations might offer the right to a refund if you choose not to travel, but this must be explicitly communicated or sought. Simply not showing up for a delayed flight will likely result in the forfeiture of your ticket, and you will not be entitled to a refund or rebooking.

Always confirm the flight status and the airline's current instructions before deciding not to travel.

Misconception 4: "On-Time Performance" is the Same as "No Delays"

Airlines track "on-time performance," which often means departing or arriving within a specific window (e.g., 15 minutes) of the scheduled time. A flight can still be considered "on time" by these metrics even if it experienced a short delay that didn't trigger passenger rights. This can be misleading, as a flight might have technically met its on-time performance target while still causing inconvenience to passengers.

Misconception 5: The Airline Owes You Everything for Any Delay

While airlines have significant responsibilities during delays, their obligations are not unlimited. Regulations and contracts specify what is owed. For example, while severe weather delays might not warrant financial compensation, the airline might still be required to provide basic care like water and information. The extent of the airline's duty of care is usually defined by the length and cause of the delay, as well as the governing laws.

Understanding these common misconceptions empowers travelers to approach flight disruptions with realistic expectations and a clear understanding of their actual rights and responsibilities.

What to Expect When Your Flight is Significantly Delayed

A significant flight delay means more than just a missed connection or a late arrival; it often triggers a series of passenger rights and airline obligations. Knowing what to expect can help you manage the situation and ensure you receive the entitlements you are due.

Care and Assistance

For delays exceeding certain thresholds, airlines are typically required to provide passengers with care and assistance. This often includes:

• Meals and Refreshments: Vouchers or access to purchase food and drinks, proportionate to the waiting time.
• Communication: Free phone calls, emails, or SMS messages to inform family or business contacts about the delay.
• Accommodation: If the delay extends overnight, airlines are usually obligated to provide hotel accommodation.
• Transport: Ground transportation between the airport and the hotel if accommodation is provided.

These provisions are standard for delays within the airline's control and often apply even for delays outside their control, depending on the region. For example, under EC 261/2004, care is mandated from a delay of two hours for shorter flights, and three hours for longer ones, regardless of the cause.

Rebooking and Refunds

If a delay becomes exceptionally long, or if it effectively becomes a cancellation, passengers gain additional rights:

• Rebooking: Airlines must offer to rebook you on the next available flight to your destination, potentially on a partner airline if their own flights are not soon enough.
• Refund: If you choose not to travel due to a significant delay, you are entitled to a full refund for the unused portion of your ticket. This includes any connecting flights you would have taken.

The decision to accept rebooking or opt for a refund depends on your travel needs and the alternative options available.

Can I get reimbursed for a delayed flight? Yes, you can often be reimbursed for necessary expenses incurred due to a significant delay, such as meals, accommodation, or essential toiletries if the airline fails to provide them. You will need to keep all receipts and submit a claim to the airline. Reimbursement is typically for reasonable expenses directly resulting from the delay, especially if the delay was within the airline's control or if the airline failed to provide mandated care.

Compensation

In addition to care, assistance, rebooking, or refunds, passengers may be eligible for financial compensation. This is most common under regulations like EC 261/2004, where delays of three hours or more upon arrival (caused by the airline) trigger specific monetary amounts based on flight distance. In the US, compensation for delays is not mandated by federal law, but some airlines might offer travel vouchers or miles as a goodwill gesture for significant disruptions within their control.

The determination of 'significant delay' for compensation purposes is usually tied to arrival time at the final destination, not the departure time from the origin. This means a flight might depart very late but still arrive within the threshold if the destination's time zone or flight path allows for a shorter overall delay.

When to Escalate Your Claim

Sometimes, an airline might deny a legitimate claim for compensation or assistance following a flight delay. In such instances, escalating your case is the next logical step to ensure your passenger rights are upheld.

Understanding Airline Denials

Airlines may deny claims for several reasons:

• Extraordinary Circumstances: They might claim the delay was due to weather, ATC, or other events outside their control.
• Insufficient Evidence: Your claim might lack the necessary documentation to support your case.
• Incorrect Application of Rules: The airline might misinterpret or misapply the relevant regulations or their own Contract of Carriage.
• Policy Limitations: For delays not covered by specific regulations (e.g., within the US for compensation), the airline's policy might not mandate payment.

If your claim is denied, carefully review the airline's explanation and compare it against the applicable regulations and your documentation.

→ Flight Delays to Cancellation: How Many Are Too Many?

Steps for Escalation

If you are unsatisfied with the airline's response, consider these escalation paths:

1. Formal Complaint to the Airline: If you haven't already, submit a detailed written complaint outlining your case, referencing specific regulations, and providing all evidence. Some airlines have a formal appeals process.
2. Regulatory Bodies: For flights covered by specific regulations, file a complaint with the designated National Enforcement Body (NEB) or equivalent authority. For example, the DOT in the US, or the relevant NEB in EU countries. These bodies can investigate and mediate disputes.
3. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): Some countries or airlines offer ADR schemes, such as ombudsman services or arbitration, which provide an independent way to resolve disputes outside of court.
4. Small Claims Court: As a last resort, you could consider legal action in a small claims court, though this is often more time-consuming and costly.

When engaging with regulatory bodies or ADR services, ensure you have meticulously gathered all evidence and clearly stated your case. They often provide specific procedures and forms for submitting complaints.

What to Provide When Escalating

To strengthen your escalated claim, ensure you have:

• Your original booking details and ticket information.
• All communication with the airline regarding the delay and your claim.
• Proof of the delay (e.g., boarding pass showing original/actual times, official delay notifications).
• Receipts for any expenses you are claiming reimbursement for.
• The airline's response to your initial claim, including their reasons for denial.

By systematically building your case and understanding the available avenues for recourse, you can effectively pursue your entitlements after a significant flight delay.

Preventing Future Travel Disruptions

While you cannot prevent all flight delays, adopting certain strategies can help mitigate their impact and reduce the likelihood of major disruptions to your travel plans.

Strategic Booking Practices

Consider booking flights that:

• Avoid Red-Eyes or Very Early Departures: These flights are sometimes more prone to delays due to earlier operational issues.
• Allow Ample Layover Time: If you have a connecting flight, opt for longer layovers, especially on separate tickets or with different airlines. A delay of even an hour can cause a missed connection.
• Are Direct Flights: Each connection is an opportunity for a delay to cascade. Direct flights minimize this risk.

Choosing flights with generous connection times is one of the most effective ways to safeguard against delay-induced missed flights.

Travel Insurance

Purchasing comprehensive travel insurance is a wise investment. Many policies include coverage for:

• Trip Cancellation/Interruption: Covers non-refundable costs if your trip is cancelled or significantly interrupted due to covered reasons, including airline delays.
• Delayed Flight Benefits: Some policies offer immediate cash payouts or reimbursement for expenses (meals, accommodation) after a certain delay duration, regardless of airline entitlements.
• Missed Connection Coverage: Helps with rebooking and additional expenses if a delay causes you to miss a connecting flight.

Ensure you understand the policy's terms, conditions, and exclusions, particularly regarding what constitutes a covered delay and the claim process.

Stay Informed and Flexible

Before and during your travel day:

• Monitor Flight Status: Regularly check your flight status through the airline's app, website, or reputable flight tracking services.
• Sign Up for Alerts: Enable flight status notifications from your airline.
• Have Backup Plans: If you have critical appointments or connections, have a contingency plan in mind for how you might rebook or rearrange if your flight is delayed.

Download your airline's mobile app and ensure notifications are enabled to receive real-time updates on flight status changes.

By combining smart booking choices, adequate insurance, and a proactive approach to staying informed, you can significantly enhance your travel experience and better manage the inevitable disruptions that can occur.

Summary of Passenger Rights by Delay Duration

To consolidate the information, here is a general overview of potential passenger rights based on delay duration. Remember, these are guidelines, and specific entitlements depend on the airline, route, and reason for the delay.

Short Delays (Typically under 2 hours)

For shorter delays, passenger rights are usually limited. Airlines are generally expected to keep passengers informed, but formal compensation or extensive assistance is uncommon. The primary focus is on getting the flight airborne as soon as feasible. However, depending on local laws or airline policy, basic amenities like water might be offered.

Medium Delays (Typically 2-4 hours)

As delays lengthen, so do airline obligations. For delays in this range, passengers can often expect:

• Care and Assistance: This may include meal vouchers, refreshments, and access to communication (phone calls, emails).
• Information Updates: Airlines should continue to provide clear and timely information about the delay.

In regions like the EU, these care provisions often kick in from a 2-hour delay, regardless of the cause.

Long Delays (Typically 4+ hours)

Substantial delays significantly expand passenger entitlements:

• Enhanced Care: More substantial meal vouchers or full meals may be provided.
• Accommodation: If the delay becomes overnight, airlines are typically required to provide hotel accommodation and transport to and from the airport.
• Right to Rebook or Refund: If the delay reaches a certain point (often 5 hours or more in the EU, or if it effectively becomes a cancellation), passengers may have the right to abandon their journey and claim a full refund for the unused portion of their ticket.
• Compensation: In jurisdictions with specific compensation regulations (like the EU), delays of 3 hours or more upon arrival at the final destination, if within the airline's control, can trigger financial compensation payments.

The key takeaway is that the longer the delay, the more rights and assistance you are likely to be entitled to, provided the delay is not due to uncontrollable, extraordinary circumstances.

Overnight Delays

When a delay forces passengers to stay overnight, airlines are generally obligated to provide:

• Hotel Accommodation: A safe and comfortable place to stay.
• Meals: Covering meals during the extended wait.
• Ground Transportation: To and from the airport and hotel.

This applies even if the delay is due to extraordinary circumstances in many regions, as the airline is responsible for the passenger's welfare while they are under its care during the disruption.