Originally Posted by
jamison
The DOT says the latter gets a bunch of money for long delays, just enough to cover the numerous expenses I'll incur by a delay (I have a hotel booking that can't be canceled, another flight the next day, and a package waiting for me at a UPS store).
Just to clarify, IDB does get some compensation (a fixed amount), rebooking, and possibly accommodations if they are available but you won't get reimbursed for your non-refundable hotel reservation and other personal expenses. If I get IDB'ed on my way to sign a million dollar contract and I lose the client, the airline does not owe me a million dollars.