01
Gather your trip details
Keep your itinerary, booking confirmation, ticket number, flight numbers, travel dates, and the airline’s record locator together.
A FREE AIRLINE COMPLAINT STARTER
Get your airline complaint organized before you send it.
A clear record and a specific request can make it easier for an airline to understand what happened and how to help. Use this free checklist at your own pace. No account is needed.
A practical checklist
Gather your records before filing
A practical checklist
Five useful steps to take
02
Save receipts and messages
Keep receipts for added expenses, photos if they help explain the issue, and copies of emails, chat messages, and case numbers from the airline.
03
Write a dated timeline
Note what happened in order, including dates, times, airport or flight details, who you spoke with, and what the airline said or did.
04
Ask for a specific remedy
State what outcome you are requesting, such as a refund, reimbursement, baggage resolution, or an explanation. Keep the request tied to the issue.
05
Contact the airline in writing
Use the airline’s customer support or complaint channel and keep a copy of what you send. If the issue is unresolved, review the U.S. DOT complaint options.
Ready-to-edit email
Email the airline about your trip
Replace the bracketed text with your details and requested resolution, then edit the wording to fit your situation.
Quick answers
Frequently asked questions
How do I use the checklist with the five steps?
Use the flight details, receipts, and prior correspondence checklist to gather records as you work through the five steps. Check items off as you go, or use the Print checklist button to print it.
Can I use the checklist without an account or starting a filing?
Yes. This public checklist is available to use on this page without an account or starting a filing. You can continue at your own pace.
How can I share this page?
Select Share this page. It uses your device's sharing option when available, then tries to copy the link; if clipboard access is unavailable, it offers a manual-copy prompt.
How do I continue to airline filing?
When you're ready, continue to the airline filing flow. The intake opens with Airline selected.
Ready to put your details together?
Continue to the airline filing flow when you’re ready. You can review your details before submitting.
Continue to airline filing