How to Get a Refund for a Cancelled Flight or Trip

A cancelled flight or disrupted trip is stressful enough on its own; getting your money back should not add to that stress. Whether the airline cancelled your flight, you need to cancel your trip, or you booked through a travel agency, this guide explains your rights and the specific steps to follow.

Part A: When the Airline Cancels Your Flight

Your Rights Under US Law (DOT Rules)

If you are flying to, from, or within the United States and the airline cancels your flight, you are entitled to a full cash refund to your original payment method regardless of whether the ticket was non-refundable. This is a firm rule enforced by the US Department of Transportation (DOT). The refund must cover:

•        The full ticket price including taxes and fees

•        Any bag fees you paid if your bags were not transported

•        Any seat upgrade fees if you did not receive that seat

The airline cannot force you to accept a voucher or travel credit instead of a cash refund. You have the right to request the cash equivalent.

You may also want to read our guide on what to do when a company ignores your complaint.

If You Are Flying Outside the US

If you are departing from or travelling within the European Union, EC Regulation 261/2004 gives you the right to a full refund or rerouting if your flight is cancelled. Similar rules exist in the UK under the retained version of this regulation. For other countries, the specific rights depend on local aviation law and the airline's own conditions of carriage.

How to Request an Airline Refund

1.     Go to the airline's official website and log in to your booking

2.     Look for the 'Manage booking,' 'My trips,' or 'Cancelled flight' section

3.     Select the option to request a refund rather than a voucher or rebooking

4.     If no online option is available, contact the airline's customer service team through their official channel

5.     Request written confirmation of your refund claim and note the reference number

Airline refunds can take 7 to 20 business days to process. If the deadline passes, follow up with your reference number.

For delayed responses, see our article on refund not received - what to do next

Part B: When You Cancel Your Own Travel

Non-Refundable Tickets

If you purchased a non-refundable ticket and you choose to cancel, you are generally not entitled to a cash refund under the airline's standard policy. However, you may be able to:

•        Receive a travel credit or voucher for the value of the ticket, usable within a set period

•        Request a fee waiver if your reason for cancellation qualifies (e.g., a medical emergency or bereavement); policies vary by airline

•        Check whether you purchased travel insurance that covers trip cancellations

Refundable Tickets

Refundable tickets allow cancellation and a full refund at any point before departure, typically to the original payment method within 7 to 10 business days of the cancellation request.

Part C: Refunds for Hotel, Tour, and Package Bookings

For hotels and tours booked directly, your rights depend on the property or tour operator's cancellation policy at the time of booking. For package holidays booked through a travel agent, you may be entitled to a refund if the package includes a cancelled flight.

If you booked through a third-party booking site (such as an online travel agency), the refund must generally be processed through that platform, not directly with the hotel or airline.

If the Airline or Travel Company Refuses Your Refund

If you believe you are entitled to a refund under your country's law and the company refuses:

1.     File a complaint with the DOT (US) at dot.gov, the Civil Aviation Authority (UK), or your national aviation authority

2.     Initiate a chargeback with your bank or credit card provider, citing 'services not rendered.'

3.     Contact your travel insurance provider if you have a policy that covers this situation

 

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