Do you get reimbursed for a missed flight?

Airline Reimbursement for Missed Flights: Exceptions and Limitations

When a flight is missed, obtaining reimbursement from the airline is a complex matter with limited options. Here’s a concise overview of the general policies and exceptions:

Standard Policy:

As a general rule, airlines do not provide reimbursement for missed flights. Once a flight has departed, the fare is considered forfeited. This means that if you arrive at the airport late and miss your flight, you will not be entitled to a refund or rebooking without additional fees.

Airline-Caused Cancellations:

The primary exception to the no-reimbursement policy is when the flight cancellation is directly caused by the airline. If the airline cancels your flight due to weather, mechanical issues, or other operational reasons, you are entitled to a refund or rebooking without penalty.

Lost Connections:

Missed connections, where you arrive at a connecting flight late and miss it, are not typically considered grounds for reimbursement. The airline’s responsibility is to transport you to your final destination, not to guarantee on-time connections. However, some airlines may offer compensation or assistance if the missed connection is caused by a delay on a previous flight operated by the same carrier.

Exceptions and Special Circumstances:

In rare instances, airlines may consider providing reimbursement or assistance for missed flights under exceptional circumstances, such as:

• Medical emergencies or urgent family matters
• Military deployment
• Natural disasters
• Government restrictions or travel advisories

However, these exceptions are typically subject to strict proof and documentation requirements, and airlines reserve the right to deny reimbursement even in these cases.

Conclusion:

Missed flights can be frustrating and financially burdensome, but obtaining reimbursement from the airline is extremely rare. Airlines typically do not provide compensation for missed flights unless they are directly responsible for the cancellation. If you miss a flight due to your own delay, you are unlikely to receive a refund or rebooking without additional fees. Therefore, it is crucial to arrive at the airport on time and allow ample time for any potential delays.