Are you owed a refund when an airline cancels or changes your flight?
The short answer
DOT says you are entitled to a refund if an airline cancels a flight, for any reason, or significantly delays or changes it, and you choose not to travel or accept credits or other compensation. For deeper delay and cancellation rights, see travelrightschecker.com.
When you get a refund
DOT defines a significant change as a departure or arrival 3 or more hours different on domestic itineraries, or 6 or more hours on international ones. It also includes a different origin or destination airport, more connections, or being involuntarily moved to a lower class. In a downgrade, if you still fly, the airline must refund the fare difference.
Timing and what you can be offered
- If you reject an offer of another flight, or do not respond, the refund must be automatic.
- A refund is due within 7 business days for credit card payments and within 20 days for other payment types.
- Airlines must tell you that you are entitled to a refund when they offer alternatives.
- Travel credits or vouchers offered instead must be valid for at least five years.
- If you take the changed or rebooked flight, you are not entitled to a refund under DOT rules.
Other refund points
If an airline cancels a flight, fees for optional services such as seat selection are refundable too. If you booked through a ticket agent that is the merchant of record, the agent must refund the fare. For tickets bought at least seven days before departure, airlines must allow a full refund within 24 hours of booking, or hold the fare for 24 hours. Rules change, check the official page before you travel.
Sources: DOT: Refunds. Read 5 November 2026. Rules and fees change, so check the official page before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
Do I get a refund if I take the new flight?
No. DOT says if you choose to take a significantly changed flight or an alternative flight, you are not entitled to a refund under its rules.
How long must a refund take?
DOT says within 7 business days for credit card payments and 20 days for other payments after the airline learns you do not accept the alternative.
Can the airline give me a voucher instead?
Yes, but it must also tell you about your right to a refund, and the voucher must be valid for at least five years.
Do I have to ask for the refund?
If you bought from the airline, DOT says the refund is automatic when you reject the alternatives.