Flight cancellations are one of the biggest frustrations for travelers — they cause missed connections, ruined plans, and plenty of stress about what you’re actually entitled to. Many passengers believe that a cancelled flight automatically means flight cancellation compensation. In reality, flight compensation and a refund for a cancelled flight are not the same thing. While you are always entitled to a refund, you’re not always entitled to flight compensation.
Let’s clarify the key differences so you know exactly what to expect — and what you can rightfully claim — when your flight is cancelled.
Check your compensation online.
What Is a Cancelled Flight Refund?
A refund is simply the return of the money you paid for your flight ticket.
When a flight is cancelled, according to European regulations, airlines must offer:
- A full refund of your unused ticket (including taxes, fees, and any add-ons), or
- A new flight to your final destination.
This rule applies regardless of why the flight was cancelled — whether due to bad weather, technical problems, or operational issues. Whenever a flight is cancelled, you’re always entitled to either a refund or rebooking (new flight). Also, it doesn’t matter when the flight was cancelled – last-minute or weeks before departure.
What Is Flight Cancellation Compensation?
Flight cancellation compensation is different — it’s an extra payment made to you, in addition to a refund or rebooking, as compensation for the inconvenience caused by the cancellation.
Please note: Flight cancellation compensation is not the same as a refund for a cancelled flight!
To qualify for compensation for a cancelled flight:
- The flight must have been cancelled less than 14 days before departure, and
- The cancellation must have been within the airline’s control (for example, due to staffing or technical issues, not extraordinary circumstances like bad weather or air traffic restrictions).
You may be entitled to flight compensation under:
- EU Regulation 261/2004 (EC 261) – for flights departing from or arriving in the EU, or
- UK Regulation 261 – for flights within or operated by UK airlines.
Refund for a Cancelled Flight vs. Flight Cancellation Compensation
| Aspect | Refund for a Cancelled Flight | Flight Cancellation Compensation |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Refunds for cancelled flights are reimbursement of your ticket cost | Extra payment for inconvenience |
| When you qualify | For any flight cancellation (regardless of reason) | For cancellations within the airline’s control, less than 14 days before departure |
| Amount | Equal to your ticket price | Fixed amount (€250–€600 under EU law) |
| Purpose | To return the money you paid | To compensate for lost time and inconvenience |
| Can you get both? | ✅ Yes, if eligible | ✅ Yes — refund + compensation possible |
Learn more:
- How to Get a Refund from British Airways? (The same rules apply to other airlines)
- How to Claim Flight Compensation?
Can You Get Both — a Refund and Compensation?
Yes, in certain situations you can receive both a refund for a cancelled flight and compensation.
If your flight is cancelled less than 14 days before departure and the reason is within the airline’s control, you could receive:
- A full refund of your ticket price, and
- Compensation under EU261 or UK261 regulations.
Both payments must be made directly to your bank account — you are not required to accept airline vouchers or credits.
Can You Get a Refund If You Cancel Your Flight?
Whether you can get a refund when you cancel depends on your fare type and the airline’s refund policy.
Most non-refundable tickets don’t qualify for a full refund, but you might still get back taxes, fees, or part of the fare. Many airlines offer flexible or refundable fares that allow cancellation with minimal or no penalties.
In special cases — such as illness, bereavement, or emergencies — airlines may also issue refunds or travel credits at their discretion.
To maximize your chances of a refund, review your booking terms and contact the airline as soon as possible. Early cancellations usually offer better outcomes.
Read more: Cancelling a Flight for Personal Reasons: Your Rights
A refund returns the money you paid for your flight, while compensation is an additional payment for the inconvenience and lost time caused by a cancellation. In some cases, you may be entitled to both — so always check your rights carefully.
Featured photo by Alaur Rahman from Pexels