Under UK rules, airlines must offer passengers a clear choice when a flight is cancelled: a refund or an alternative flight to the destination. This applies regardless of the reason for the cancellation, according to the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Refund or reroute: your basic options
If you choose to travel, the airline must arrange replacement transport. The CAA says rerouting should be offered at the “earliest opportunity” or on a later date that suits you, depending on seat availability.
When compensation is payable
Compensation is not automatic. It generally depends on the cancellation being the airline's responsibility and you being notified less than 14 days before departure. The legal framework is retained UK law based on EU Regulation 261/2004 (UK261).
Compensation is often not payable if the cancellation was caused by “extraordinary circumstances”. The CAA lists examples such as severe weather, air traffic control restrictions, and security risks outside the airline’s control.
Care and assistance
Even without compensation, airlines owe “care and assistance” when passengers are left waiting. This can include meals, refreshments, hotel accommodation when an overnight stay is needed, and transfers between the airport and the hotel.
If the airline does not provide this help and you have to buy essentials yourself, keep all receipts and proof. Consumer group Which? advises that passengers may be able to reclaim reasonable costs when they were entitled to assistance but did not receive it.
Travel insurance and further steps
Check your travel insurance if the cancellation triggers knock‑on costs, such as missed accommodation or events. The Association of British Insurers (ABI) notes that many policies include some cover for disruption, but protection varies widely by provider and policy wording.
If you think the airline handled your case wrongly, start by complaining directly to the carrier and asking for a written final response. If unresolved, you may take it to an approved alternative dispute resolution (ADR) provider if the airline is signed up to one. If ADR is not available, other routes include credit or debit card protections and, in some cases, court action. The key is having a paper trail showing the cancellation, timeline, and what you spent as a direct result.
