What happens if your flight is Cancelled for 24 hours?

Passenger Rights: What Happens If Your Flight is Cancelled for 24 Hours or More?

As an air traveler, understanding your rights is crucial, especially when faced with flight disruptions. One such situation is flight cancellations, which can be frustrating and inconvenient. In this article, we explore what happens if your flight is cancelled for 24 hours or more, and the rights you have as a passenger.

Legal Obligations of Airlines

According to regulation, airlines are legally obligated to promptly refund passengers for cancelled flights, regardless of whether the ticket is refundable or not. This applies not only to complete cancellations but also to significant alterations in flight schedules that cause delays exceeding 24 hours.

Passenger Options

Upon flight cancellation, airlines are required to offer passengers the following options:

• Rebooking: Airlines must rebook passengers on the next available flight to their destination.
• Refund: Passengers can opt for a full refund of their ticket price if they do not wish to be rebooked.
• Alternative Transportation: In some cases, airlines may provide alternative transportation, such as a bus or train, to get passengers to their destination.

Passenger Rights

Passengers have the right to choose any of the above options without penalty. They are not obligated to accept rebooking if they prefer a refund. Airlines cannot charge any additional fees or penalties for requesting a refund for a cancelled flight.

Refund Timeline

According to the Department of Transportation, airlines must provide refunds within:

• 7 business days: for credit card purchases
• 30 days: for cash or check purchases

Exceptions

There are a few exceptions to the refund requirement:

• Force Majeure: Airlines are not required to provide refunds if the cancellation is due to an event beyond their control, such as a natural disaster or weather conditions.
• Government Intervention: If the cancellation is caused by a government order or action, airlines are not legally liable for refunds.

How to Request a Refund

Passengers should contact the airline directly to request a refund. Airlines typically offer multiple ways to request a refund, including online, over the phone, or at the airport. It is important to provide the airline with your flight details and ticket information.

Conclusion

Flight cancellations can be disruptive and frustrating, but understanding your rights as a passenger can help you navigate the situation. Remember that you have the right to a full refund for flights cancelled for 24 hours or more, regardless of whether your ticket is refundable. By being informed and assertive, you can ensure that your rights are respected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.