That dreaded “CANCELLED” message on the airport screen. It can send anyone into a panic. Flight cancellations are a frustrating part of travel, but what you do next matters most. Instead of getting stressed, take a deep breath. Here are the four things you should do when your flight gets cancelled.
1. Get Airline Alerts on Your Phone
This is step one. Flight delays or cancellations can happen at any time. Sometimes you find out before you even leave for the airport. Download your airline’s app and make sure push notifications are turned on. This is the fastest way to get updates. Also, keep a close watch on your email and text messages for any new information. Staying informed is your greatest advantage in the event of a travel disruption.
2. Check Your Rebooking Options Immediately
Airlines often try to rebook you automatically on the next available flight. Open your airline app or website to see what they have offered you. You can usually accept the new flight, choose a different one, or (if you decide not to travel) request a refund. Using the app is almost always faster than waiting in a long customer service line. If you do need to call, try finding an international number for the airline. These lines often have shorter wait times.
3. Understand Your Basic Rights Upon Cancelled Flight
This is where things can get confusing, as passenger rights change depending on the country and airline. However, you almost always have two basic choices. First, you can accept a rebooking on a new flight to your destination. Second, if you decide not to travel, you are entitled to a full refund for the part of the trip you did not take. This applies even to nonrefundable tickets.
Airlines might offer you a travel voucher first, but you can usually ask for your money back. Other compensation, like a hotel room or food vouchers, often depends on the reason for the cancellation (like a technical problem versus bad weather). Check your airline’s website for their specific “contract of carriage” or “conditions of carriage.”
4. Look for Your Own Backup Plan
If your trip is urgent, do not wait for the airline. Start looking for your own backup. Check other airlines, nearby airports, or even different types of transport, like a train. Having a “Plan B” gives you control. If you book a backup, try to make it as flexible as possible. A refundable ticket or a flight booked with reward points is often easier to cancel if your original flight plans work out. Always check the cancellation rules before you buy.
Travel disruptions are always a headache, but having a quick plan helps you stay in control. While QVI doesn’t handle flight bookings, we’re all about making the journey worth it once you arrive. Whether your flight got cancelled or delayed, your travel story doesn’t have to stop there. With QVI, your stay can still be smooth, flexible, and unforgettable — because great memories start the moment you finally land.
