What am I entitled to if my flight has been cancelled?

Flight Cancelled? Know Your Rights and Get What You’re Owed.

Airline travel can be unpredictable, and flight cancellations, unfortunately, are a reality. Knowing your rights when this happens can save you stress and potentially a lot of money. While the experience itself is frustrating, you are entitled to certain provisions when your flight is cancelled, regardless of the reason.

The most fundamental right you have is the choice between a refund and rebooking. When your flight is cancelled, the airline is obligated to offer you either a full refund for the unused portion of your ticket, or rebooking onto another flight to your final destination. This applies even if the cancellation is due to circumstances outside the airline’s control, such as extreme weather. You can request this immediately at the airport customer service desk, or contact the airline directly later if you prefer to consider your options. Don’t be pressured into accepting a voucher if you’d prefer a cash refund.

However, your entitlements go beyond just rebooking or a refund. If the cancellation results in a significant delay – typically two hours or more from your original scheduled arrival time – you are legally entitled to further assistance. This assistance often falls under the umbrella of “duty of care” and covers reasonably incurred expenses resulting from the disruption.

While specific entitlements can vary based on the airline and the specific circumstances, they generally include:

• Meals and refreshments: Airlines should provide you with food and drinks appropriate to the delay.
• Accommodation: If an overnight stay becomes necessary due to the cancellation, the airline should provide a hotel room, or other suitable accommodation. This also includes transportation to and from the accommodation.
• Communication: Airlines should facilitate your ability to communicate the disruption to others, often by providing phone calls, internet access, or other means of contact.

It’s crucial to keep all receipts for any expenses you incur as a result of the cancellation. These will be necessary when submitting your claim for reimbursement. While airlines may offer immediate assistance, in some cases, you may need to submit a claim retrospectively. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the specific policies of the airline you are flying with.

Finally, remember that your rights may be further enhanced depending on the departure location and specific regulations. For example, regulations like EC261 within the European Union offer further compensation for cancellations depending on the distance of the flight and the length of the delay. Researching these regulations based on your itinerary can be beneficial.

Being informed about your passenger rights is key to navigating the frustrating situation of a flight cancellation. By knowing what you’re entitled to, you can ensure a smoother experience and minimize the disruption to your travel plans.