Air travelers have to put up with a lot of nonsense these days. Delays, cancellations, getting bumped off a flight – they’re all grounds for accommodation and compensation from the airline.

So let’s say, the airline awards you a $100 voucher for your troubles. In order to receive the compensation, you’d have to spend additional money.

But what if you’re not happy with the results?

A successful appeal is an art form. Remember that you’re never stuck with the first answer a company gives you. Travel blogger Christopher Elliot has five tips that’ll help:

Write back: Companies will often send a make-good offer via email. Should you believe you’re entitled to more, simply write to the company to say so. Keep in mind that often these emails are sent through an automated system, and they may not always be monitored. Do a little digging to find the appropriate customer service rep to get in contact with.

Find someone who can give you a “yes”: Should you feel that the compensation is insincere, demand to speak with a supervisor. An executive or higher-up always has the ability to overrule an arbitrary offer. If you’re having trouble finding him or her, try this list of customer service managers that Christopher Elliot has compiled.

Know what to say: A successful appeal takes some thoughtful consideration. Did the airline break any rules, terms or conditions? Did it violate any laws? How devastating was the inconvenience caused by the mishap? Encapsulate that frustration into a succinct, polite statement.

Offer a sensible resolution: The airline can’t guess what solution will appease you. If a voucher isn’t enough, think about what would be. Asking for a round-trip ticket is a more realistic request than asking for a round-trip ticket in first class.

Be reasonable about your chances: some cases as easier to appeal than others. Hope for the best, but don’t be surprised if you get another ‘no.’ Airlines are getting less and less accommodating (if you haven’t noticed).

Is it becoming too difficult to appeal a rejection by a company? Write: Julia@planetamex.com