Cancelled Flight? Here's Exactly What to Do (Step-by-Step Guide)
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Your flight has just been cancelled. Don't panic. Here's your complete action plan to get where you need to go and claim the compensation you deserve.
Step 1: Don't Accept the First Offer
Airlines will often try to rebook you on a much later flight or offer vouchers. You have the right to choose between:
- A full refund (within 7 days)
- An alternative flight at the earliest opportunity
- An alternative flight at a later date of your convenience
Step 2: Document Everything
Keep all documentation:
- Boarding passes and booking confirmations
- Screenshots of the cancellation notification
- Receipts for any expenses (meals, transport, hotel)
- The reason given by the airline for the cancellation
Step 3: Know Your Rights to Care
If you're stuck at the airport, the airline must provide:
- Meals and refreshments
- Hotel accommodation (if overnight stay is needed)
- Transport between the airport and hotel
- Two phone calls, emails, or faxes
Step 4: Claim Your Compensation
Under EU Regulation EC 261, you're entitled to €250–€600 if:
- The flight was cancelled less than 14 days before departure
- The cancellation was within the airline's control
→ File your claim easily with AirHelp
Step 5: Check Your Travel Insurance
Your travel insurance may cover additional expenses that the airline won't. Check your policy for:
- Trip interruption coverage
- Accommodation costs
- Alternative transport expenses
Step 6: Consider Alternative Routes
Use flight comparison tools to find alternative routes. Sometimes booking a separate flight yourself and claiming the cost back is faster than waiting for the airline.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Accepting vouchers instead of cash — you're entitled to monetary compensation
- Not keeping receipts — document every expense
- Giving up too easily — airlines often reject valid claims initially
- Missing the deadline — you have up to 3 years to claim in most EU countries
Why Use AirHelp?
Airlines reject about 30% of valid claims hoping passengers will give up. AirHelp has legal experts who know exactly how to handle rejected claims and will even take airlines to court if necessary.
