How do I get a refund for a canceled flight?
Your right to a refund
Under U.S. Department of Transportation rules, if an airline cancels a flight, you are entitled to a refund of the ticket price, including taxes and fees, even if the cancellation is due to weather or other uncontrollable events.
The refund must be to the original form of payment. If you paid with a credit card, it goes back to that card. If you used miles, they must be reinstated. You do not have to accept a travel voucher unless you choose to.
For flights to or from the EU, EU Regulation 261/2004 may also entitle you to compensation in addition to a refund, depending on the circumstances.
- Full refund to original payment method.
- Miles and fees must be refunded.
- You can refuse a voucher and insist on cash refund.
- EU flights may qualify for extra compensation.
How to request the refund
Contact the airline directly. Many have an online form or a dedicated refund page. If you booked through a third-party site (like Expedia or Kayak), you must request the refund through them, as they are the ticket agent.
Provide your booking reference and flight details. Be clear that you are requesting a refund, not a voucher. If the airline delays or refuses, file a complaint with the DOT.
If you paid by credit card and the airline won't refund, you can dispute the charge. Keep all documentation, including cancellation notices and your refund request.
- Request refund from the airline or booking site.
- Use online forms for faster processing.
- Escalate to DOT if airline refuses.
- Dispute with credit card as last resort.
Common mistakes
- Accepting a travel voucher when you're entitled to a cash refund.
- Waiting too long to request a refund, missing airline deadlines.
- Requesting a refund from the airline when you booked through a third party.
