If the airline cancels your flight or it's significantly delayed (a term currently defined on a case-by-case basis) and you're forced to change your travel plans, the Department of Transportation requires airlines to provide a full refund. Unfortunately, getting a refund is often a lengthy and frustrating process.

When your flight is cancelled, the airline's primary legal responsibility in 2026 is to either rebook you on the next available flight to your destination at no extra cost or provide a full refund, even if the ticket was non-refundable. Under modern passenger rights regulations (such as EU261 or similar US DOT rules), if the cancellation happens with short notice, the airline must also provide "duty of care," which includes food and beverage vouchers, and hotel accommodation plus transportation if you are stranded overnight. If the cancellation was within the airline's control (like a crew shortage or mechanical issue) and not due to "extraordinary circumstances" (like weather or air traffic control strikes), you may also be entitled to cash compensation ranging from $250 to $700 depending on the flight distance. Most airlines now use automated systems to send a text or email with a pre-selected new itinerary; however, you have the right to decline their choice and ask for a different routing or a refund if the new timing does not work for your schedule.