The U.S. Department of Transportation has released airline statistics for 2007 and with increasing number of late, cancelled or delayed flights as well as a record number of mishandled bags, some passengers may feel grounded when it comes to getting compensated.

You can request a copy of your contract of carriage and by law your airline has to give you a copy.

Whether or not you want to wade through dozens of pages to find a small section usually called "Rule 240" or "Section X" that outlines your rights, well that's up to you.

But many passenger advocates say even if you find it and interpret it, you may not get your money's worth.

For questions about your passenger rights or what to do if you get stranded call the hotline below or log onto the Coalition for an Airline Passenger Bill of Rights website by clicking on the link below.

HOTLINE: 1(877)FLYERS6