The core rule
If your airline cancels your flight — or significantly changes it — and you choose not to travel, you are entitled to a full cash refund, not just a voucher. This applies even to non-refundable and Basic Economy tickets.
What counts as 'significant'
Under DOT rules finalized in 2024, a delay of 3+ hours domestic or 6+ hours international, a departure/arrival airport change, added connections, or a downgrade all qualify as significant changes triggering refund rights.
Automatic refunds
Airlines must now issue qualifying refunds automatically and promptly — within 7 business days for credit card purchases — without making you fight through forms.
When you still want to fly
Refunds are only half the story. If you need to get there, airlines will rebook you on their own next flight for free, but they rarely volunteer partner-airline options. This is where we earn our keep: our desk monitors client itineraries and moves fast on rebooking, often before the gate announcement finishes.
Keep your paper trail
Save the cancellation notice, note the reason given, and keep receipts for expenses. If you booked through VoyageStates, one call puts our team on the case for you.
Put this to work on your next trip
Call with your route and a specialist checks wholesale fares while you're on the line.
+1 (888) 555-0199 Call a Flight Expert