What rights do I have if my flight is cancelled?

My Flight Was Cancelled: What Are My Rights?

Flight cancellations are a frustrating travel reality, throwing itineraries into disarray and leaving passengers stranded. Knowing your rights can empower you to navigate these disruptions effectively and minimize the inconvenience. While specific entitlements can vary depending on the airline, your departure location, and the reason for the cancellation, some general principles apply.

The most common recourse offered by airlines when a flight is cancelled is rebooking onto their next available flight to your destination, at no extra cost to you. This is often the quickest and easiest solution, especially for those with flexible schedules. However, “next available” can sometimes mean a significant delay, potentially impacting connecting flights or planned activities.

Don’t passively accept a rebooking that doesn’t suit your needs. Proactively explore alternative options. Check other airlines flying to your destination and see if they have earlier availability. If you find a suitable alternative, contact your original airline and request that they endorse your ticket over to the new carrier. While they are not obligated to do this, many airlines will cooperate, particularly if the delay on their own services is substantial. This allows you to avoid lengthy waits and potentially get to your destination sooner.

Beyond rebooking, depending on the circumstances and the applicable regulations (e.g., EU Regulation 261/2004 for flights departing from or arriving in the EU on an EU carrier), you may be entitled to additional compensation. This can include:

• Meals and refreshments: Airlines should provide reasonable sustenance during significant delays.
• Accommodation: If the cancellation requires an overnight stay, the airline should provide hotel accommodations and transportation to and from the hotel.
• Financial compensation: In certain situations, particularly cancellations due to reasons within the airline’s control, passengers may be eligible for financial compensation. This is more common in the EU, but some other jurisdictions have similar protections.

It’s important to document everything. Keep records of your original flight details, the cancellation notice, communication with the airline, and any expenses incurred due to the disruption. This documentation will be crucial if you need to pursue a claim for compensation later.

Finally, remember that staying informed is key. Familiarize yourself with your airline’s cancellation policy before you fly. Check the reason for the cancellation, as this often influences your entitlements. Don’t hesitate to ask airline staff about your options and the assistance they can provide. Being proactive and assertive can make a significant difference in minimizing the disruption caused by a flight cancellation.