My United flight is delayed by 5 hours, what are my rights?

Your Rights When a United Flight Is Delayed

A five-hour delay on a United Airlines flight can disrupt plans, cost money, and create real stress—especially if you are traveling for work or an important event. The good news is that passengers do have enforceable rights and practical options. The challenge is knowing what is legally required, what United typically offers, and how to act quickly to protect your interests.

This guide breaks down your rights in clear, practical terms, based on publicly available airline policies and U.S. passenger protection rules. It also includes real-world examples and step-by-step actions you can take during a long delay.

What U.S. Law Actually Requires

In the United States, airline passenger rights are primarily governed by federal transportation rules. Unlike some regions where compensation is automatic after a certain delay length, U.S. law focuses on refunds, transparency, and safety.

The DOT tarmac delay rules

If your United flight is delayed while still on the aircraft (a tarmac delay), there are strict limits:

• Domestic flights: Passengers must be allowed to deplane after three hours unless safety or air traffic control restrictions prevent it.

• International flights: The limit is four hours.

• During extended tarmac delays, airlines must provide:

  • Access to restrooms

  • Basic medical assistance

  • Adequate food and water

These protections apply regardless of whether the delay is caused by weather, mechanical issues, or staffing problems.

Refund eligibility basics

If your flight is delayed by five hours, one of your strongest rights is the right to a refund instead of travel. This applies when:

• The delay is considered “significant”

• You choose not to fly due to the delay

In that case, you are entitled to a refund for the unused portion of your ticket, even if the delay was outside United’s control. Refunds must be issued to the original form of payment.

What U.S. law does not require is automatic cash compensation for inconvenience alone. That is where airline-specific policies become important.

United Airlines’ Delay Policies in Practice

United’s customer service commitments often go beyond minimum legal requirements, particularly when the delay is caused by factors within the airline’s control.

Meals, hotels, and vouchers

For a five-hour delay, United may offer:

• Meal vouchers for use at the airport

• Hotel accommodations for overnight delays

• Ground transportation to and from the hotel in some cases

These benefits are usually provided when the delay is caused by controllable issues such as mechanical problems or crew availability. If the delay is weather-related, United may still assist, but it is not guaranteed.

A real-world example:A traveler delayed for five hours due to a mechanical issue at a major hub was offered meal vouchers and rebooked on a later flight at no extra cost. Another passenger on the same route, delayed due to thunderstorms, received rebooking assistance but no vouchers.

The key takeaway is that cause matters, and asking politely—but promptly—can make a difference.

What to Do During a 5-Hour United Delay (Step-by-Step)

Long delays are frustrating, but the actions you take in the first 30 to 60 minutes can significantly affect your outcome.

Immediate Actions at the Airport

As soon as the delay is announced, shift from waiting mode to action mode.

Rebooking and standby options

United typically allows flexible rebooking during extended delays. You can:

• Rebook on the next available United flight at no extra cost

• Ask to be rerouted through a different hub

• Request to be placed on standby for earlier departures

• In some cases, ask about rebooking on a partner airline

Do this through:

• The United mobile app

• Airport kiosks

• A gate agent or customer service desk

The app is often faster, especially when lines are long.

Documenting the delay

Documentation protects you later. Take a few minutes to:

• Screenshot delay notifications

• Photograph departure boards showing the delay

• Save emails or app alerts

• Keep receipts for food, transportation, or lodging

This information is useful if you request reimbursement, file an insurance claim, or dispute charges later.

Compensation, Refunds, and Alternatives

Once the delay reaches five hours, you have meaningful choices.

When to request a refund instead of flying

You should consider requesting a refund if:

• The delay causes you to miss the purpose of your trip

• You find a better alternative flight on another airline

• An overnight stay becomes unavoidable and impractical

If you cancel due to a significant delay, United must refund the unused portion of your ticket. This is often more valuable than vouchers if your plans are no longer workable.

Special Situations, Insurance, and Real-World Scenarios

Not all five-hour delays are equal. Understanding the cause and your backup protections helps you make smarter decisions.

Weather, mechanical issues, and crew problems

Delays generally fall into three categories:

• Weather-related: Thunderstorms, snow, fog

  • No legal obligation for compensation

  • Rebooking is usually offered

• Mechanical or operational issues: Aircraft problems, crew shortages

  • Greater chance of meal vouchers or hotels

  • Stronger case for reimbursement

• Air traffic control constraints: Congestion, staffing limits

  • Treated similarly to weather delays

Knowing which category applies helps you set realistic expectations and frame your requests.

Using travel insurance and credit card protections

Many travelers overlook this step. If you paid for your ticket with a premium credit card or purchased travel insurance, you may have coverage for:

• Meals during long delays

• Hotel stays

• Essential purchases

• Missed connections

Coverage often begins after a delay of three to six hours. Claims usually require documentation, which is why record-keeping matters.

Frequently asked questions?

Am I entitled to cash compensation for a five-hour United delay?

In most cases, no. U.S. regulations do not require cash compensation for delays alone. However, you may be entitled to a refund if you choose not to travel.

Can I get a refund even if the delay is due to weather?

Yes. If the delay is significant and you decide not to fly, you can request a refund for the unused portion of your ticket.

Will United provide a hotel for a five-hour delay?

Hotels are typically offered when an overnight stay is required and the delay is caused by factors within United’s control. Weather-related delays may not qualify.

Do meal vouchers automatically apply after a certain number of hours?

No. Meal vouchers are discretionary and usually depend on the cause of the delay and airport availability.

Should I cancel or wait it out?

If the delay undermines the purpose of your trip or causes cascading issues, canceling and requesting a refund may be the smarter option.

Can I rebook on another airline for free?

United primarily rebooks on its own flights, but in some cases, agents may arrange alternative carriers. It never hurts to ask.

Does a five-hour delay affect my checked baggage rights?

Your baggage should be transferred to your rebooked flight. If you cancel entirely, you can request your bags back at the airport.

What if I miss a connection due to the delay?

United is responsible for rebooking you on the next available flight to your final destination at no extra charge.

How long do refunds usually take?

Refunds typically appear within several business days, though timing can vary depending on your payment method.

Is it better to speak to an agent or use the app?

The app is often faster, but complex situations—such as mixed itineraries or urgent connections—are best handled by an agent.