As many Americans prepare to travel during the winter holidays, it’s important to understand your rights if your flight experiences delays. If your flight gets postponed, you may qualify for a refund or some form of compensation due to commitments made by different airlines to the Department of Transportation.

A recent regulation from the DOT, which started in late October, mandates that airlines refund passengers if their flight is delayed significantly for reasons within the airline’s control. It also holds airlines accountable for upholding their customer service commitments in similar situations.

Here’s what you need to understand.

What qualifies as a significant delay?

The DOT categorizes a significant delay as a departure or arrival more than three hours late for domestic flights, or over six hours delayed for international flights.

What is a controllable delay?

As per the DOT’s definitions, a controllable delay is one that originates from the airline, which can include issues like maintenance, crew shortages, cabin cleaning, baggage loading, and fueling. Delays due to weather or air traffic control operations are not counted against the airline.

What can I expect if my flight is delayed?

If your flight is significantly delayed due to reasons under the airline’s control, you can ask for a refund if you choose not to continue your travel. If you opt to wait, you may also be eligible for compensation or accommodations, which might include being rebooked on another flight or airline at no charge, as well as meal and hotel vouchers for qualifying delays, among other perks.

No U.S. airlines currently offer cash compensation for delays, but the major airlines (American, Delta, Southwest, and United) provide hotel and transportation vouchers for overnight delays.

The DOT has a dashboard detailing the policies of all major U.S. airlines.

What should I do if my flight is delayed?

Your best strategy is to familiarize yourself with your airline’s policies ahead of your trip and advocate for yourself. Reach out to the airline through any available method—using their app, social media, phone, or at the airport help desk if you’re already traveling. It’s wise to have alternate flight options in mind when you talk to an agent. Additionally, make sure to inquire about any compensation or accommodations you might be eligible for if you wish to take advantage of these policies.