• 22 May, 2024
  • Travel tips
  • Travomint

Does Southwest compensate for delayed flights?

Southwest Airlines has always prioritized its customers no matter the situation. The airline provides the best service on every occasion, including Flight delays. Although the airline always intends to operate as planned, there are times when things are not in its control (Like bad weather) and cause delays, and sometimes things are in its power (mechanical issues) but still delayed. If a delay occurs, the airline ensures you get all the necessary information or time and provides compensation based on various factors. The article will discuss when you are eligible for Southwest's delayed flight compensation. How do you apply for it? There are multiple terms and conditions, so stay tuned until the end. 

Southwest Airlines Delayed flight compensation- Points to consider 

Here are the essential points related to Southwest Airlines compensation policy; take a look to understand things better: 

If your Southwest Airlines flight got delayed for 3 hours or more because of something under their control, such as the need to swap out planes, mechanical issues, etc., you are eligible for compensation for the expenses you incurred during the delay or because of that. 

If your Southwest Airlines flight is delayed due to bad weather, climate change, or other reasons beyond their control, you will not receive compensation. 

You can get compensation for meals through a voucher that is acceptable at the airport. However, if you don't want a voucher or if it's of no use to you, Southwest Airlines may also accept a reasonable reimbursement for the meal cost. In that case, ensure you have all the bills, receipts, and other necessary documents. You must submit the compensation request form for the meal no later than a year after the incident. 

If Southwest Airlines cannot get you to the destinations on the same day or the reservation doesn't include the overnight layover, you can ask the airline to provide you a stay or reimbursement for the lodging if you live nearby. You must submit the compensation form for lodging no later than a year after the delay. 

If Southwest Airlines arranges accommodation or lodging and doesn't have a shuttle to or from the airport, you can also ask the airline to provide a voucher for transportation or request compensation for the taxi or something similar. Make sure to submit the compensation form for transport no later than a year from the delay. 

Southwest Airlines' compensation request process 

Once you are eligible for compensation, submit the compensation form for meals, transport, and accommodation on time to avoid any hassle. Here are the steps to get compensation from Southwest Airlines. 

  • Head to the Southwest Airlines official site and go to the 'Contact Us' page.
  • Find out the reimbursement and compensation page for delay and cancelation 
  • Click on 'Request reimbursement' and continue 
  • On the new page, you will see the compensation form link 
  • Provide the information, including Flight Information and contact details; click 'Next.'
  • Follow the prompt, and once you are done with the form, submit it 
  • The Southwest Airlines team will verify details, and if eligible, they will process compensation 
  • Additionally, you can also talk to Southwest Airlines in case it takes longer or if you have any other query 

Conclusion: After reading the detailed information, hopefully, you learned when you are eligible for Southwest delayed flight compensation, how to get compensation, and the procedure to get compensation. However, if you have any doubts or need more details, call the Southwest Airlines hotline and speak directly to Southwest Airlines customer service. The member can log in to the Southwest Airlines account and get personalized support. Finally, visit the Southwest Airlines website and open the reimbursement page for additional details and valuable information.