Flight cancellations can disrupt your travel plans significantly. Knowing the right steps to take immediately after a cancellation can help you manage the situation effectively and minimise inconvenience. Here’s a quick guide on what to do if your flight gets cancelled.
Step 1: Stay Informed
As soon as you learn about the cancellation, seek information directly from the airline. Airlines are required to inform passengers about the reason for the cancellation and the next available options. Use the airline’s app, website, customer service desk, or airport announcements to stay updated.
Step 2: Know Your Rights
Under the UK261 Regulation, and similar regulations in other jurisdictions, passengers are entitled to certain rights in the event of a flight cancellation. These rights include:
- Right to Information: Airlines must explain the reasons for the cancellation.
- Right to Rebooking or Refunding: You can choose between a full refund of your ticket or rebooking on the next available flight. If the next available flight doesn’t suit your schedule, you can opt for a later date.
- Right to Care: For cancellations without prior notice, airlines are supposed to provide meals, refreshments, and accommodation if an overnight stay is necessary, along with transport between the airport and the place of accommodation.
Step 3: Rebook or Refund
Decide whether you want to continue with your journey at the earliest opportunity or if you prefer to cancel your trip:
- Rebooking: Contact the airline to find out about the next available flights. Airlines typically try to accommodate you on their next flight with available seats.
- Refunding: If the cancellation disrupts your travel plans significantly or a suitable alternative is not available, requesting a refund may be the best option.
Step 4: Claim Compensation
In addition to rebooking and care, you might be eligible for compensation:
- Eligibility: Compensation depends on several factors such as the length of notice before cancellation, the reasons for the cancellation, and if the cancellation was within the airline’s control.
- Amount of Compensation: The compensation varies based on the flight distance and the region under which the regulation falls. For example, under the UK261 Legislation, compensation can range from £220 to £520.
- How to Claim: Submit a claim through the airline’s compensation portal. Include all necessary details such as your flight number, booking reference, and the details of the cancellation.
Step 5: Document Everything
Keep a record of all communications with the airline, including emails and messages about the cancellation and your claims. Save receipts of any additional expenses incurred due to the cancellation, as you might be able to claim these back from the airline.
Step 6: Use Additional Services
If you find the process of claiming compensation daunting, consider hiring an attorney or using services like flight cancellation compensation companies. These companies can manage the claim on your behalf, usually for a fee or a percentage of the compensation amount.
Step 7: Review Your Travel Insurance
Check your travel insurance policy for coverage related to cancellations. Some policies offer compensation for lost accommodation bookings, alternative travel arrangements, and other non-refundable expenses.
Conclusion
A flight cancellation doesn’t have to ruin your travel plans. By understanding your rights, acting quickly, and keeping thorough records, you can lighten the inconvenience caused. Whether you choose to rebook or seek a refund, knowing the correct steps to take can ensure that you are compensated fairly and can continue your journey as smoothly as possible.
