How to Handle Delta Flight Delays

Flight delays are no fun. A nor’easter, missing crew or aircraft maintenance issues can delay your flight faster than you can say “delay.” It’s one thing if the wait time is minimal. But, a long delay can mean a missed connection or an overnight stay and mess up your entire vacation.

Depending on the airline and your route, you might be able to claim flight delay compensation. Here’s what to do when you experience flight delays on Delta Air Lines.

It depends. In reality, there are currently no federal U.S. laws that protect passengers in case of a flight delay, except in the case of an involuntary bump. In practice, you might be eligible for some compensation if the delay is within the airline’s control.

» Learn more: How to improve your odds of getting Delta flight delay compensation

If your Delta flight is delayed by at least 30 minutes, you can rebook a new flight to your final destination. You can do this through the app, by calling Delta customer service or by visiting a Delta help desk at the airport.

Depending on the delay, you might ask the airline for a goodwill credit to your SkyMiles account. If you’re delayed overnight, Delta might give you a hotel voucher for a free night and possibly some meal vouchers. Keep in mind that none of these offers are guaranteed, and you might not receive anything.

» Learn more: How to change your flight on Delta

If your Delta flight departs Europe, you might qualify for the EC 261/2004 flight compensation regulation. Customers are eligible for this compensation if they depart the EU on any airline or arrive in the EU while flying with a European airline.

» Learn more: How to get paid for flight delays

So, if your Delta flight out of a European Union country, or a European Economic Area, which includes non-EU members like Iceland or Norway, is delayed or canceled, you may be eligible for compensation. This compensation varies based on how long the delay and the flight distance is.

As per the EC 261 regulation, you can expect the following compensation for delayed flights (based on the scheduled arrival time):

• 250 euros for flights shorter than 932 miles (1,500 kilometers) that are delayed at least two hours.

• 400 euros for flights between 932 miles and 2,174 miles (3,500 kilometers) that are delayed at least three hours.

• 600 euros for flights longer than 2,174 miles that are delayed at least four hours.

Additionally, if the flight is delayed for five hours or longer, you’re eligible to get a refund for the unused portion of the ticket.

Some delay reasons, such as weather or political conflicts, aren’t covered, so check with Delta whether the airline would be responsible for the compensation. Typically, airlines only have to pay if the delay is for a reason that's within the airline's control — such as mechanical issues.

Although the United Kingdom left the European Union, its government retained the EC 261 regulation, which means that similar compensation applies to eligible flights from the U.K.

» Learn more: How to rebook and save when Delta’s prices drop

If you experience a Delta delay of 30 minutes or longer, you can change your flight for a different one. Once a flight is delayed, there’s always a chance for an extended setback, so it might not be the worst plan to switch to the next departing plane going to your destination.

Request a change in the Fly Delta app, on the Delta website through My Trips or wait in line at a customer service desk. You can also call a representative at 800-221-1212 to make a flight change.

For a higher chance of success, if you can’t change a Delta flight in the app or need more assistance with an overnight delay, call the airline while you wait in the airport line. This way, whoever you get to first can help you quicker.

You can also file a complaint online but beware that a reply can take several days. To do so, click “Feedback & Complaints” and “Submit general feedback.” Next, check the “File a Complaint” box, then check “Flight Difficulties” and then “Flight Delayed.” Continue to personal info and then continue to comment.

Again, the form is designed for post-trip feedback, so don’t expect an immediate resolution.

» Learn more: How to get a refund from Delta

Many travel rewards cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and The Platinum Card® from American Express, offer some kind of trip protection, see more on their benefits in the comparison module below. Terms apply.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards

If trip delay insurance provided by travel rewards cards isn’t enough, consider purchasing a comprehensive travel insurance plan. In many cases, a travel policy will have higher coverage limits than what you get through your card provider.

Shop around for plans and make price comparisons. Keep in mind that the longer your trip is, the more money it will cost to cover it. A traveler’s age also influences how much a plan will set you back. Still, trip insurance can spare you some of the aggravation if something goes wrong during your trip.

With a comprehensive plan, on top of trip delay coverage, you’ll have:

• Trip cancellation and interruption coverage.

• Baggage delay coverage.

• Emergency medical insurance.

• Emergency medical evacuation coverage.

Some plans even offer quarantine lodging expenses if you get COVID-19 while traveling, and you might be able to add “Cancel For Any Reason” protection.

First of all, don't panic. If you can't wait it out, contact the airline by phone or at a customer service desk and ask to be put on a different flight to your destination. If your Delta flight is departing Europe, be aware of your passenger rights and don't forget to claim compensation if it's a significant delay.

If all else fails, file a claim with your credit card benefits administrator or trip insurance provider if you purchased a plan in advance.