How much am I entitled to if my flight is cancelled?

Cancelled Flight? Know Your Rights to a Refund

Flight cancellations are frustrating, but knowing your rights can ease the burden. While the inconvenience is undeniable, passengers are often entitled to more than just a sympathetic ear from the airline. The crucial takeaway is this: you are entitled to a refund for a cancelled flight, regardless of the ticket type or the reason for cancellation.

This isn’t a small detail; it’s a legally protected right. Airlines are obligated to provide a prompt refund when a flight is cancelled or significantly altered. This includes changes impacting your journey substantially, such as a significant delay that renders your original travel plans impractical. Crucially, this applies even to tickets marketed as “non-refundable.” The term “non-refundable” typically refers to the ability to change your booking, not your right to a refund in case of cancellation by the airline.

Let’s break it down further:

• Cancellation by the airline: If the airline cancels your flight, your right to a refund is clear-cut. This applies regardless of whether the reason is due to mechanical issues, weather, air traffic control issues, or even overbooking.
• Significant schedule changes: A significant delay, a change of aircraft resulting in a substantially different travel experience (e.g., a downgrade from a wide-body to a cramped smaller plane), or a route change that dramatically alters your journey all qualify for a refund if you decline the airline’s offered alternatives. “Significant” is generally interpreted as a delay exceeding a certain threshold, often several hours. The specific threshold might vary depending on your location and local regulations.
• Declining alternatives: Airlines often offer alternative flights or rebooking options. If you choose not to accept these alternatives because they don’t suit your needs, you are still entitled to a full refund. However, it is vital to request this refund promptly and in writing.
• What constitutes a refund? This generally refers to the full cost of the unused ticket, including any applicable taxes and fees. However, specific details on what constitutes a “full” refund and any potential exceptions might be subject to the individual airline’s policies and the terms and conditions of your ticket. Always review the terms carefully before booking.

Taking Action:

Document everything. Keep records of your booking confirmation, cancellation notification, and any communication with the airline. This documentation will prove invaluable if you need to pursue your refund further. Contact the airline promptly to request your refund. Be polite but firm in asserting your rights. If the airline is unresponsive or refuses your request, consider filing a complaint with your national aviation authority or seeking legal advice. Numerous consumer protection agencies and websites offer valuable guidance on this process.

In short, a cancelled flight doesn’t mean you’re out of luck. Understanding your rights and taking proactive steps can ensure you receive the refund you’re entitled to and help alleviate the stress of a disrupted travel plan.