How do I obtain a refund if I cannot travel to the US due to visa delays?

Last year I planned a US trip, but my visa kept getting delayed. When I called the airline, I explained I couldn't travel because my visa appointment was rescheduled again. I asked for a refund, not just a date change. I quickly pulled together: ticket number, the fare rules, and a letter/email from the consulate showing the delay, plus my passport name matching the booking. They checked the policy and offered a full refund as a government/visa delay exception, or at least a credit. I took the refund instead of rebooking. If your fare is nonrefundable, ask for a waiver or travel credit, and also check travel insurance or credit-card protections. If it’s a package, talk to the tour operator.

When my visa got delayed, I contacted the airline and tour operator, provided proof, and got a refund per their policy.