The chances of your flight being delayed have steadily increased in the United States. The news isn't great if you frequently fly United Airlines: Roughly 1 in 5 United flights has been delayed so far in 2022, according to the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics.

Since your chances of ending up on a delayed flight are 20%, let's look at how United handles delays, how to get compensation for delayed United flights and what steps you can take to minimize disruptions.

What United considers a flight delay

United's website mentions delays of one hour or longer as the cut-off for getting travel help from its agents. It recommends seeking assistance from the United app, its website (united.com/checkin) or an airport kiosk.

The airline provides guidance if your flight is delayed overnight: "Talk to a customer service agent about your overnight options. Although we don't provide free hotel stays if your flight is delayed or canceled for reasons outside our control, we may be able to get you discounted hotel stays and free toiletries if you can't get to your checked bags for the evening."

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United compensation for delayed flight

Currently, the U.S. Department of Transportation does not require airlines to compensate passengers for delayed flights, and United has no policy of compensating passengers if their flight is delayed.

Suppose a flight delay impacts your travel enough that you'd rather postpone or cancel your trip. In that case, you may request a refund or travel credit for your ticket, even if the fare typically has restrictions on changes or cancellations. The amount of credit or refund you receive will depend on how much of your trip you've already completed.