Since there are no federal requirements on weather-related delays and cancellations in the U.S., all American airlines have their own policies for compensation. Make sure to check your airline's rules so you can be firm on what you are owed. Go online or call a customer service representative to find airline policies. Airlines generally won't compensate you for delays caused by storms, riots, and labor strikes, which they consider circumstances out of their control. However, if your flight is delayed due to mistakes on the airline's part, you are entitled to compensation that increases as the delay stretches on. If your flight is cancelled, many US airlines will only provide a re-booked flight or a full refund. Some, however, will offer special vouchers and perks as well. You can even do this while waiting in line to talk to a service rep or agent at the airport. Often, you will be able to reach the airline before you make it through the line, whether by calling or by reaching out to the airline over social media. When using social media, make sure to use a polite tone and maybe a bit of humor to make your point. Airlines may vary on responsiveness when contacted through social media. American Airlines is known for being helpful, while Delta and United are often not. Make sure to ask the service rep if it will affect your connecting flight, if you have one. You should also ask how the change will affect your baggage. This information will help you plan how to best deal with the delay or cancellation. If the schedule change interferes with your connecting flight, you'll have to re-book that as well. Airlines have different procedures regarding checked luggage when flights are delayed or cancelled. Make sure to ask a service representative about their policy. If you want to rebook your flight with this airline, their service representatives can help you find the best option. However, if you want to book a new flight with a different airline, ask for a refund instead and either contact your travel insurance agent, find a representative from a different airline, or go online to find a new flight. If you have travel insurance, you can call in for help re-booking the flight and finding accommodations if the delay or cancellation requires you to stay the night. JetBlue is the only U.S. domestic airline that guarantees its customers compensation for delays. If you're stuck on the tarmac for three to four hours, the airline will give a $50 credit. If you're waiting five or more hours, the credit goes up to $200. European Union regulations are far more generous to customers in cases of delays or cancellation. In the case of a delay, the laws require airlines to provide meals, refreshments, and overnight accommodations as needed. European airlines must also pay customers for delays. If your flight is delayed more than four hours, you can be paid up to 250 to 600 euros. If your European flight is canceled, the airline is required to refund you within a week of the canceled flight.

Summary:
Know your passenger rights. Contact the airline directly. Ask how long the delay will be and how it will affect you. Rebook your flight or request a refund. Call your insurance company. Ask for automatic compensation if you're delayed for three hours on Jetblue. Expect better compensation if you're traveling in Europe.