If you miss a connecting flight because your first flight was delayed or cancelled and both were booked under the same airline (or a single itinerary), the airline is legally and contractually responsible for getting you to your final destination. In 2026, the airline must rebook you on the next available flight at no extra cost. If the next flight isn't until the following day, the airline is required to provide "Duty of Care," which includes hotel accommodation, transportation between the airport and the hotel, and meal vouchers. Furthermore, if you are traveling in the EU, UK, or other regions with strong passenger rights (like India's revised DGCA charter), you may be entitled to cash compensation (up to €600/$650) if the delay at your final destination exceeds three hours and was within the airline's control (e.g., technical fault vs. weather). The "pro" tip for 2026 is to skip the long customer service line at the airport and use the airline's app or a dedicated "rebooking kiosk" to secure your new seat immediately, as the system often processes these "automatic" rebookings before you even reach the desk.