Dealing with cancelled flights can be a nightmare, but it doesn’t have to be.
With our guide to cancelled flights, you’ll know who to call, what to do and the flight compensation you may or may not be entitled to. Here’s what you need to know about cancelled flights.
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Navigating cancelled flights
We all know how frustrating it is when your flight is cancelled. One minute you’re all geared up ready to head to far-flung shores. The next, you’re scrambling to figure out when you’ll get on that plane. From rebooking and refunds to finding the right airline contact details and navigating compensation for cancelled flights, these are your next steps.

What to do if your flight is cancelled
Five essential steps
If your flight has been cancelled, make sure you do the following. You may be able to hop on another flight or get your money back.
1. Ask if your airline can rebook you on another flight
Your airline must be able to offer you alternative travel
Choose between flying ASAP, flying later, or using alternative transport – for example, a train or a flight with a different airline. Discuss this with your airline directly at the airport, call the airline’s customer service, or use online rebooking tools.
2. Make sure you keep records of all costs incurred
Your airline is legally obliged to support you
If you choose an alternative flight, your airline must provide food and drinks, phone calls, and accommodation costs whilst you wait for the new flight. Keep all receipts for any costs incurred to file your claim with the airline.

3. Explore your money back options
If you choose not to travel, you’re entitled to a full refund
All airlines process refunds differently so contact the airline or travel agent directly for advice on your refund entitlements. Be ready to provide all flight details and booking reference numbers. The flight refund can be given as cash or as a flight booking voucher.
4. Check advice for non-UK/EU destinations and airlines
Your entitlement will vary outside of the UK and EU
If you’re travelling with a non-UK/EU based airline from a non-UK/EU destination, the airline may not have the same duty for cancelled flights. Refer to the terms and conditions of your booking. Learn more about the refund process and where to find our partner contact details.
5. Check what your rights are
Cancellation policies vary for every airline and travel agent
While your rights are protected under UK law, airlines and travel agents manage flight delay claims differently. Visit their official websites to find cancellation policies. Your airline should also notify you on how to claim compensation for a delayed flight.

Find out if you’re eligible for compensation
You may be entitled to compensation for any disruption caused
Flight compensation eligibility will vary based on multiple factors
Flight delay compensation varies based on whether the airline gives less than two weeks’ notice, the cancellation is within the airline’s control (for example, not because of extreme weather), the length of your cancelled flight, and the length of disruption.
For flights of 1,500km or less
According to the Civil Aviation Authority, you could be entitled to £220 (€250) compensation for flights 1,500km or less (like Glasgow to Amsterdam). This will be reduced by 50% if the arrival time of the replacement flight doesn’t exceed the time of the original flight by two hours.

For all other flights
According to the Civil Aviation Authority, you could be entitled to £520 (€600) compensation for all other flights (like London to New York). This will be reduced by 50% if the arrival time of the replacement flight doesn’t exceed the time of the original flight by four hours.