Overview
Air Wisconsin, operating primarily as United Express, follows the policies of United Airlines for missed flights, as outlined in their Customer Service Plan and Contract of Carriage. The policy addresses options for passengers who miss their flights due to personal reasons or airline-related issues, such as delays or cancellations. Outcomes depend on the fare type, ticket conditions, and the reason for missing the flight. For flights to/from the EU, EU Regulation 261/2004 may apply.
Note: As of April 2025, Air Wisconsin has ceased scheduled passenger flights following the termination of its contract with American Airlines. The information below reflects policies applicable during its operations as United Express or American Eagle, and any future operations may differ. Always check with the operating carrier (e.g., United Airlines) for current policies.
Missed Flight Due to Passenger’s Responsibility
If you miss your flight due to arriving late, failing to check in on time, or lacking valid travel documents, the following may apply:
- Non-Refundable Tickets: Most economy fares are non-refundable. If you miss your flight, you may lose the ticket value, though taxes and fees may be refundable upon request. Contact Air Wisconsin’s reservations center or United Airlines for assistance.
- Flexible Fares: If you purchased a flexible fare, you may rebook to a later flight, subject to availability and fare rules. A fare difference or change fee may apply.
- No-Show Policy: Failure to check in by the deadline or notify the airline may result in cancellation of your entire itinerary, including onward or return flights. A no-show fee may apply if you attempt to rebook.
Note: Check-in begins 24 hours prior to departure via the United Airlines website or at the airport 4 hours before departure. Passengers must check in at least 45 minutes before domestic flights (60 minutes for international flights) and be at the gate 45 minutes prior to departure. Failure to meet these deadlines may result in cancellation of your reservation and seat assignment.
Missed Connecting Flight Due to Airline Delays
If you miss a connecting flight due to a delay or cancellation of an Air Wisconsin-operated flight (under United Express) within the same booking, United Airlines’ policies apply:
- Rebooking: United Airlines will rebook you on the next available flight at no additional cost, either with Air Wisconsin, United, or another carrier, depending on availability.
- Right to Care: For delays within the airline’s control (e.g., technical issues), United Airlines must provide meals, refreshments, and, if necessary, hotel accommodation and transport to/from the airport.
- Compensation: For flights departing from an EU airport, if you arrive at your final destination 3+ hours late due to reasons within the airline’s control, you may be eligible for compensation of up to €600 under EU Regulation 261/2004, depending on flight distance:
- €250 for flights up to 1,500 km
- €400 for flights between 1,500 and 3,500 km
- €600 for flights over 3,500 km
Compensation is not available for delays caused by extraordinary circumstances (e.g., weather or air traffic control).
- Refund Option: If you choose not to travel, you may request a full refund for the unused portion of your ticket. Full refunds are available if no part of the reservation has been flown; otherwise, a partial refund may be requested before the original departure time.
Note: If your connecting flight is on a separate ticket or with another airline, Air Wisconsin/United Airlines is not responsible for missed connections. Contact the operating airline for assistance.
Steps to Take if You Miss a Flight
If you miss your flight, follow these steps:
- Provide Booking Details: Have your booking reference or ticket number ready (available in your confirmation email or United Airlines mobile app).
- Explore Options: Depending on your fare type, you may rebook, receive a voucher, or request a refund (subject to fare rules). Flexible fare holders may change flights without fees, subject to availability.
- Submit a Claim (if applicable): For missed connections due to airline delays, file a claim via United Airlines’ Customer Care page with your booking reference, boarding pass, and receipts for additional expenses. Claims for EU-regulated flights must be submitted within 3 years.
