What are my rights if an airline cancels my flight?

Flight Cancelled? Know Your Rights and Reclaim Your Due

Airline cancellations are frustrating, but knowing your rights can turn a chaotic situation into a manageable one. While the inconvenience is undeniable, passengers in the US are afforded significant protections under the Department of Transportation (DOT). Let’s break down what those rights are if your flight gets cancelled.

The Core Right: Refund, Regardless of Fare Type

The most significant right is the right to a refund. Contrary to what some airlines might initially suggest, even if you booked a “non-refundable” ticket, you are entitled to a full refund if the airline cancels your flight, provided you choose not to travel. This is a key point – the refund is contingent on your decision not to rebook on a later flight offered by the airline. If you accept an alternative flight offered by the airline, you may not be entitled to a refund.

What constitutes a “cancellation”?

A cancellation isn’t just a significant delay. While significant delays can warrant compensation in some situations, a cancellation is a complete scrapping of your scheduled flight. If the airline significantly alters your flight time, making it impractical for your travel plans (e.g., changing a morning flight to a late-night flight on a different day), it might be considered a de facto cancellation giving you grounds for a refund.

Beyond the Refund: Other Considerations

While the refund is the primary focus, your rights extend beyond financial compensation. Airlines are obligated to:

• Offer Reasonable Alternatives: Airlines should actively assist in finding alternative flights, even if it means routing you through a different airport or airline (if part of a code-share agreement). This should be done in a timely manner, minimizing further disruption to your travel plans.
• Provide Reasonable Care: In certain circumstances, particularly lengthy delays or overnight stays resulting from the cancellation, airlines may be responsible for providing meals, hotel accommodations, and transportation to and from the hotel. These provisions often depend on the length of the delay and the airline’s specific policies, but they are a reasonable expectation in many scenarios.
• Transparency and Communication: Airlines have a responsibility to keep passengers informed about the cancellation and the options available. Clear and timely communication is crucial.

What to Do When Your Flight is Cancelled:

1. Contact the Airline Immediately: Don’t wait. Reach out via phone or their app to understand the situation and available options. Document everything, including confirmation numbers, communication records, and any promises made by airline representatives.
2. Understand Your Options: Carefully consider the alternative flights offered. Weigh the convenience and impact on your travel plans before accepting. If the alternatives are unsatisfactory, assert your right to a refund.
3. Keep Records: Keep meticulous records of all communications, emails, receipts, and any documentation relating to the cancellation and your subsequent actions.
4. File a Complaint: If the airline is unresponsive or refuses to provide a refund or reasonable compensation, file a complaint with the DOT. The DOT can investigate and potentially take action against the airline.

Cancellations are frustrating, but understanding your rights and acting decisively can significantly improve the outcome. Remember, you have more leverage than you might initially think. Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself and pursue the compensation you deserve.