Flight Refunds: How to Get Your Money Back from an Airline
You’re legally entitled to a full ticket refund if an airline cancels your flight at short notice. But, based on UK and EU laws, you can also get refunded if you were denied boarding or if your flight was severely delayed. Here, you’ll learn the facts on when you can be refunded for a flight, how to get your money returned, and what to do if the airline doesn’t cooperate with you.
Key Takeaways
- You’re legally entitled to a refund if your flight’s cancelled, delayed by 5+ hours, or you’re denied boarding under UK261 / EU261.
- Refunds must be paid within 7 days to your original payment method, and you never have to accept a voucher if you prefer cash.
- Add-ons count too, seat upgrades, baggage fees, and extras bought through the airline should all be refunded.
- If you cancel your own flight, only refundable fares or unused taxes and fees can be reclaimed.
- Package holidays are refunded by your tour operator, not the airline, under the Package Travel Regulations 2015/2302
If you’re departing from the UK, regardless of the airline, or arriving into the UK with a UK or EU carrier, you are protected by passenger rights Regulations UK261, and EU261. Both regulations state that airlines should refund you if your flight was affected by any of the following situations.
When You’re Owed a Flight Refund
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) outlines the following situations where airlines should refund your money.
- When your flight is cancelled: No matter when or why your flight is cancelled, you can choose between a full refund or re-routing to your destination.
- When your flight is delayed for five hours or more: If your flight hasn’t departed after a 5-hour delay, you’re entitled to a full refund, even if the flight eventually departs.
- When you’re denied boarding: If the airline overbooks your flight and you’re not allowed to board, you can choose between re-routing and a refund.
In all these cases, refunds should be issued within 7 days and paid to the original payment method you used when you booked your flight. If the airline doesn’t process your flight refund in approximately 30 days, you can escalate your case to the CAA or National Enforcement Body (NEB).
Extras and Add-Ons Included in a Ticket Refund
If you’re owed a ticket refund because of a flight disruption, it should include the full cost of the ticket at the price it was when you bought it, according to Article 8 of UK261/EU261. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the European Commission both interpret this to include the following:
- Seat Selection Fees: Any amount you paid to reserve a particular seat, whether it’s for a window seat, extra-legroom, front-row placement, or seats together with your family.
- Baggage Fees: Pre-paid checked baggage should be refunded as well as excess baggage fees for extra kilos or additional bags you pre-purchased.
- Priority Boarding or Speedy Boarding: If you paid for early or priority boarding the airline should return this cost since the service was never delivered.
- In-Flight Meals and Special Requests, including drinks
- Seat Upgrade Fees: Any extra amount paid to upgrade your seat from economy to premium economy, business, or first class
- Service and Booking Fees, including carrier-imposed surcharges and fuel supplements, even when these appear as “service fees.” Only independent third-party booking fees (charged by travel agents or comparison sites) might be excluded.
- Airport Services Booked Through the Airline, like lounge access, airport transfers, or car-hire vouchers bundled in your booking through the airline’s platform are generally refundable if they are tied to the cancelled flight.
Getting a Refund if You Cancel Your Flight
Your refund rights are very different if you make the decision to cancel your flight. In this case, you do not have an automatic right to a refund. Instead, your options depend on what kind of ticket you bought and the airline’s own refund policy, rather than statutory law. Here’s how it works:
Refundable vs Non-Refundable Tickets
- If you purchased arefundable ticket, you can cancel at any time and get a refund based on the fare conditions.
- If you purchased a non-refundable ticket, you generally won’t get the base fare back. However, under UK consumer law and CAA guidance, you can still reclaim taxes and airport fees, since those charges only apply when you actually take the flight you booked. Be aware though, because airlines might deduct a small administrative fee when processing this refund.
The 24-Hour Cooling-Off Rule
Passenger rights laws don’t guarantee a 24-hour cooling-off period, but several major airlines voluntarily offer it as a customer-friendly policy. For example, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic allow you to cancel within 24 hours of booking and receive a full refund if you booked directly through their website or app.
Low cost airlines, like easyJet and Ryanair, don’t usually offer this, so always check the refund policies before booking.
Refunds When You Book Through a Travel Agent or Third Party
If you booked your flight through a travel agent or online booking site, your refund rights stay the same, but the process of getting your money back can take longer. Legally, it’s always the airline’s responsibility to refund you when a flight is cancelled or severely delayed for an avoidable reason.
So, if you booked your flight through a third party, the airline will usually send the refund back to the agent, and not directly to you. This means the agent is ultimately responsible for passing the money along to you, and this can sometimes take weeks. If your airline says it has already refunded your travel agent, contact your agent directly.
Bottom line, the airline owes you the refund, even if you booked through someone else.
Refunds for Codeshare Flights
A codeshare flight is when one airline sells the ticket but another airline actually operates the flight. So, for example, you book a flight with British Airways (BA) but the flight itself is handled by American Airlines or Iberia.
In these situations, the operating carrier (the airline that physically runs the flight) is legally responsible for handling refunds. So, if your BA-coded flight is operated by Iberia and is cancelled, Iberia must issue the refund, even though your booking confirmation shows a BA flight number.
Refunds for Connecting Flights with Mixed Airlines
If your trip involves multiple legs operated by different airlines under one booking, your right to a refund depends on the final destination and the carrier responsible for the disruption.
- If a UK/EU carrier operates the affected flight (even if another airline issued the ticket), you’re covered by UK261/EU261.
- If a non-UK/EU carrier operates a flight departing from a UK or EU airport, you’re still covered.
- If the disruption occurs on a flight departing outside the UK/EU, operated by a non-UK/EU carrier, you’re not covered under UK261/EU261, though you may still get a refund under the airline’s own Conditions of Carriage.
Can You Get a Refund if You Missed Your Flight?
Yes! If you missed a connecting flight because of an earlier delay or cancellation on the same booking, you’re entitled to a refund for the unused part of your journey. However, if your connecting flights were booked separately, you’re not covered, as the missed connection would be treated as a separate trip.
If you missed your flight because you were late, you normally can’t claim a refund under UK261 or EU261. But you might still recover taxes, fees, or part of a refundable fare, or rebook for a later flight at a reduced cost.
How to Get a Refund for Flights Booked as Part of a Package Holiday
If your cancelled or changed flight was part of a package holiday, your refund is protected under the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations, instead of the standard UK261 flight rules. These regulations give you stronger protection because your booking counts as a single contract.
When your flight is included in a package, you will need to contact the tour operator (the company that sold you the holiday), for your refund, not the airline. This is because your refund covers the entire holiday cost, including flights, accommodation, and extras like transfers or excursions.
The Difference Between Cash Refunds & Vouchers
Airlines often prefer to issue vouchers because it forces you to book a flight with them at a later date. But according to Article 8 of EU261, you are not required to accept one. In fact, the European Commission explicitly advises passengers to choose cash refunds if that's what you prefer.
Can You Get Compensation in Addition to a Refund?
Yes! In some cases, you’re not just entitled to a refund but to compensation as well. Depending on the situation, airlines are required to issue as much as £520 / €600, to make up for the inconvenience caused by a flight disruption. But refunds and compensation are completely different.
- A refund covers the cost of your unused ticket, while
- Compensation recognises the delay, cancellation, or loss of time caused by the airline.
When You Can Get Both
You can claim both compensation and a refund if:
- Your flight was cancelled less than 14 days before departure, and the airline was responsible (for example, due to crew shortages or technical issues).
- You arrived at your final destination more than 3 hours late, even after being rebooked.
- You were denied boarding involuntarily (e.g. overbooking), and you chose a refund instead of re-routing.
In these situations, you should get a refund for your unused flight ticket PLUS compensation for the disruption as long as it was avoidable.
Are Flight Refunds Automatic or Do You Have to Claim?
Most of the time, airlines do not issue refunds automatically, even when you’re entitled to one. This is because airlines typically prefer rebooking passengers instead of issuing refunds, so if you’d rather have your money back, you must formally request a refund from the airline, usually through their website or customer service form.
What if You Were Rebooked Automatically?
If your flight was cancelled, and the airline rebooked you automatically, you can still decline the new flight and ask for your money back.
Time Limits for Requesting Flight Refunds
Under UK and EU law, there is no deadline for requesting refunds, but these rules do require airlines to issue an approved refund within 7 days. Even so, many airlines do have time limits for requesting flight refunds. Usually these range from 6 to 12 months, but each airline has different policies so check the specifics in your airline’s Contract of Carriage.
How to Get a Flight Refund Online
To get your flight refunded, you’ll need to take these steps
- Contact the airline directly. Go to the airline’s “Manage Booking” or “Refund Request” page. Many airlines have an online form where you can submit your claim.
- Include key details about your flight. Provide your booking reference, flight number, original travel dates, and proof of payment. Keep copies of everything, like confirmation emails, messages, or screenshots of delays and cancellations.
- Escalate your case if the airline ignores you. If there’s no progress after 2 or 3 weeks, contact the CAA Passenger Advice and Complaints Team (PACT). You can also raise a chargeback or Section 75 claim with your bank or credit card provider.
How to Get a Flight Refund Through Your Bank or Credit Card
If your airline or travel agent refuses to refund you, you technically have two backup options through your bank: A chargeback and Section 75. Both can work, but they can take lots of time and involve lots of paperwork. Here’s what you need to know.
Getting Your Refund through a Chargeback
A chargeback is a voluntary scheme run by Visa, Mastercard, and American Express that allows your bank to reverse a payment if you didn’t receive the service you paid for, like a flight. Basically, the refund is pulled back from the airline’s bank rather than from the airline itself.
You can normally do this within 120 days of your scheduled flight, but some banks allow up to 540 days. However, getting a flight refund this way comes with some drawbacks.
The Downside of Chargebacks
- It’s not a legal right like what you have under UK261, and banks can refuse your claim.
- Refunds can be temporary and even reversed if the airline disputes them.
- Third-party payments (like PayPal) are often excluded.
So while Chargebacks can help in straightforward cases, it’s not a guaranteed way to get a flight refund, especially if you’re dealing with complex bookings, third-party agents, or unresponsive airlines.
Getting a Flight Refund through Section 75
Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974 will give you stronger protection for credit card purchases between £100 and £30,000. This method makes your card provider jointly liable with the airline if your flight was cancelled and your refund claim was denied. It’s also a very helpful way to get a refund if your airline goes bankrupt.
But pursuing a refund claim via Section 75 can take months and require extensive documentation to be successful. Also, you can run into disputes if you booked through an agent or another 3rd party.
But, why waste your time and effort?
At AirAdvisor, we can act on your behalf, so you get the maximum payout without the stress. Plus, it’s risk free, You don’t pay a fee unless we win your case. We’ll gather the evidence and negotiate directly with the airline, all without upfront costs. This means a frustrating travel experience can turn into a fair financial outcome.
Getting Fair Refunds in the UK
Here are a few real examples of how AirAdvisor has helped passengers across the UK recover the refunds they were owed.
Case 1: British Airways Cancellation at Aberdeen Airport
A passenger travelling from Aberdeen to London had their British Airways flight cancelled shortly before departure due to crew scheduling issues. No alternative flight was offered that day, and the passenger was left to book a replacement at their own expense.
What Happened Next
The traveller contacted AirAdvisor, who reviewed the disruption and confirmed that this type of cancellation was within the airline’s control under UK261. AirAdvisor filed a claim for both compensation and a full refund for the unused flight segment.
The Outcome
The passenger received £220 (€250) in compensation and a refund for their original ticket. What started as a sudden disruption turned into a smooth, fair resolution thanks to AirAdvisor’s handling.
Case 2: British Airways Night-Before Cancellation from London
Another traveller’s London to Santiago flight with British Airways was cancelled the night before departure, leaving them unable to board their long-haul connection. The airline initially provided only a partial voucher and offered a rebooking several days later.
What Happened Next
AirAdvisor intervened and cited the UK261 rule that requires airlines to offer passengers the choice between a full refund, rerouting at the earliest opportunity, or rebooking at a later date. The passenger chose a refund to make alternative travel arrangements.
The Outcome
AirAdvisor secured a full refund of the long-haul ticket and £520 (€600) in compensation for the last-minute cancellation. The client said AirAdvisor “made the process far less overwhelming” and “kept me updated every step of the way.”
Case 3: easyJet Refund After Lisbon–London Cancellation
A passenger booked to fly Lisbon to London with easyJet had their flight cancelled with minimal notice. The airline promised a refund but never processed it, leaving the traveller out of pocket for more than a month.
What Happened Next
AirAdvisor reviewed the case and submitted formal documentation on the passenger’s behalf, citing EU261 protections for flights departing from an EU airport. The team followed up persistently with easyJet’s customer relations department until the refund was confirmed.
The Outcome
The passenger received their full ticket refund and an additional €250 (£220) compensation for the disruption. They described the process as “surprisingly quick” and said AirAdvisor “did more in a week than I could in a month.”
AirAdvisor, the #1 global flight and baggage compensation company, has already helped more than half a million passengers recover what they’re legally owed. If your flight was cancelled or you’re still waiting for a refund, our team can turn your case into a fair financial outcome.
Get the money you’re owed!Just enter your flight details below and let AirAdvisor handle the rest.Check Your Flight
Tools to Help You Out
Resources & Additional Reading
- Received Flight Cancellation Notice? Here's what to do
- Should I Accept Cash or Vouchers for a Cancelled Flight?
- Business Trip Flight Cancellation
- How to Claim Hotel Costs for Cancelled Flights
Flight Cancellations by Issue
- Flight Cancellation due to Weather
- Flight Cancellation due to Technical Problems
- Flight Cancellation due to Air Traffic Control Issues
People Also Ask
Can you get a flight refund if you discover that you’re pregnant and want to cancel your travel plans?
Unfortunately, no. Airlines are not obliged to refund passengers who want to cancel their plans because of being pregnant. However, if you have travel insurance, the provider may cover the cost depending on your policy. In most cases, this is only valid in situations when your doctor has advised you against flying.
Can you get a ticket refund if you missed your flight?
It depends. If you miss your flight because you didn’t check in on time then you would NOT be able to get a refund. But if you missed a connecting flight because the initial flight was cancelled or delayed and you decide not to continue on with your journey, you can get a refund.
If the airline offers you a rebooking because of missing your connection, then you will not be able to get a refund.
Can you get a refund if the flight is delayed?
You are entitled to a refund on flight delays if your flight was delayed more than 5 hours and you no longer wish to wait for the flight. You can get a flight refund for the whole booking if you are about to travel and the flight was disrupted, or you could get a partial refund for the unused parts of your itinerary if you’ve already taken the first part of your trip.
Can you get a refund for a return flight?
You are entitled to a refund for all unused parts of your ticket.
Let’s say you purchased a flight from London to New York.
- If your flight from London to New York is cancelled, you can get a refund for both the outbound and return flights.
- If your return flight to New York is cancelled, and you’ve already made the first part of your trip (London to New York), then you will only get a refund for the return flight.
Can you cancel your flight last minute and get refund?
If you want to cancel your flight voluntarily, you will need to purchase a flexible ticket. However, first check the terms and conditions of each airline. Some might not allow refunds with less than 24 hours before departure.
Can you get full refund if flight is rescheduled?
You can get a refund only if there is a significant change. If the airline informed you that the departure time is only a few hours later or sooner than the initial time, you cannot ask for a refund.
Official Legal and Regulatory Frameworks
1. European Union. Regulation (EC) No 261/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 February 2004 establishing common rules on compensation and assistance to passengers in the event of denied boarding and of cancellation or long delay of flights. EUR-Lex. https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32004R0261
2. UK Government. The Air Passenger Rights and Air Travel Organisers’ Licensing (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019. https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2019/278/contents/made
3. UK Government. The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018.https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2018/634/made
4. European Union. Directive (EU) 2015/2302 on package travel and linked travel arrangements. EUR-Lex. https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2015/2302/oj
5. International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Convention for the Unification of Certain Rules for International Carriage by Air (Montreal Convention, 1999).https://www.icao.int/secretariat/legal/List%20of%20Parties/Mt1999_EN.pdf
6. Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). Cancellations and Refunds – Passenger Rights Guidance.https://www.caa.co.uk/passengers-and-public/resolving-travel-problems/delays-and-cancellations/cancellations/
7. Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). Passenger Advice and Complaints Team (PACT).https://www.caa.co.uk/passengers/resolve-an-issue/passenger-advice-and-complaints-team/
8. Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). ATOL Protection and Package Holidays. https://www.caa.co.uk/passengers/atol-protection/
9. European Commission. Air Passenger Rights Portal. https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/travel/passenger-rights/air/index_en.htm
10. European Commission. National Enforcement Bodies Directory. https://transport.ec.europa.eu/transport-themes/passenger-rights/national-enforcement-bodies_en
11. ABTA – The Travel Association. Cancellations or Changes to Your Holiday. https://www.abta.com/your-rights/reasons-for-complaining/cancellation-or-changes-your-holiday
12. UK Government. Consumer Credit Act 1974 – Section 75. https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1974/39/section/75
13. UK Finance. Chargeback Rights Guide. https://www.ukfinance.org.uk/policy-and-guidance/reports-publications/chargeback-rights-guide
14. Citizens Advice. If Your Flight’s Delayed or Cancelled. https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/holiday-cancellations-and-compensation/if-your-flights-delayed-or-cancelled/
15. Which? Consumer Rights. Flight Delay or Cancellation: Can I Get Compensation? https://www.which.co.uk/consumer-rights/advice/i-had-a-flight-delay-or-cancellation-can-i-get-compensation-a366S8c1zHl2
16. Which? Consumer Rights. What to Do If You Miss Your Flight. https://www.which.co.uk/consumer-rights/advice/what-to-do-if-you-miss-your-flight-aMW3C6i3qJ7B
17. British Airways. General Conditions of Carriage. https://www.britishairways.com/en-gb/information/legal/british-airways/general-conditions-of-carriage
18. Virgin Atlantic. Conditions of Carriage. https://flywith.virginatlantic.com/gb/en/footer/conditions-of-carriage.html
19. Ryanair. General Terms and Conditions of Carriage. https://www.ryanair.com/gb/en/useful-info/help-centre/terms-and-conditions#article-7
20. easyJet. Terms and Conditions. https://www.easyjet.com/en/terms-and-conditions
Author:
Joanna Teljeur
Job/Position: Senior Editor & Content Lead
Joanna Teljeur is a senior editor and writer with 15+ years of experience in editorial leadership, journalism, and content development, specialising in consumer rights, aviation law, and public-interest reporting. Her work focuses on transforming complex regulatory and legal topics into clear, accurate, and accessible content for international audiences.
No feedback
