Flight
Cancellation compensation
Flight cancellations can be a major inconvenience for passengers, especially when they are not given adequate notice or alternative arrangements. Fortunately, passengers are entitled to compensation under certain circumstances. In this article, we will explore the rules and regulations around flight cancellation compensation.
What is Canceled Flight Compensation?
-
Canceled flight compensation is a form of financial compensation that may be available to passengers whose flights are canceled. Airlines are required to compensate passengers for canceled flights that are within the airline's control. This compensation may take the form of cash, vouchers, or other benefits, depending on the airline's policies.
When is Canceled Flight Compensation Available?
Canceled flight compensation is generally available when the cancellation is within the airline's control, such as a scheduling problem or lack of available crew. However, compensation is not typically available when the cancellation is caused by circumstances outside the airline's control, such as bad weather or air traffic control issues. The specific circumstances in which compensation is available may vary depending on the airline and the situation.
​
You are only entitled for flight cancellation compensation if:
-
You were notified of the flight cancellation less than 14 days before it was scheduled to depart.​
​
-
Because of the airline's error, your flight was cancelled (technical problems, conflicting schedules, cabin crew strikes, etc.).
​
-
You have proof that you made a reservation.​
When am I not entitled to compensation for a flight that has been cancelled?
There are circumstances in which you are not entitled to compensation if your flight is cancelled. A traveller who misses a flight is not entitled to compensation if:
-
The flight was cancelled due to extraordinary circumstances (adverse weather conditions, air traffic control strikes, airport staff strikes, civil unrest, terrorism, and others).
​
-
14 days before travel, the airline notified passengers of any cancellations.
​
-
The passenger received a discounted airline ticket (not available to the general public) or was given a free flight ticket (ex., pilots and hostesses travel free of charge)
How Much Compensation is Available?
The amount of compensation available for a canceled flight can vary depending on a number of factors, including the length of the delay, the distance of the flight, and the airline's policies. In general, compensation may range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the severity of the cancellation. The following table outlines the compensation amounts:
How to Claim Canceled Flight Compensation?
The following is a general guideline for obtaining compensation for a cancelled flight:
-
Speak with the crew about the reason for the flight cancellations (get some written proof of cancellation).
​
-
All of your travel documentation should be kept safe (boarding pass, booking reservation, etc.).
​
-
Collect evidence of airline cancellations (for example, take a photo of the departure schedule).
​
-
Request a ticket refund or another flight (note down the actual arrival time to the destination, ask for complimentary meals and refreshments if delayed more than 2 hours, and ask for the hotel room and transportation if delayed till the next day).
​
-
If you have additional expenses as a result of the canceled flight, keep all receipts: for meals and water, and in some situations, for a hotel, taxi, and so on.
​
-
Accepting travel vouchers should be done carefully because you may lose your claim in cash (keep in mind that most vouchers include a waiver to compensation)
​
If you are not satisfied with the airline's response, you can file a complaint with the CTA. The CTA will investigate the complaint and may order the airline to provide compensation if they determine that the airline was at fault.