The short answer
Get in the airline app and rebook yourself immediately while queueing — the app is usually faster than the desk. In the EU/UK you are owed rerouting plus care, and up to €600 compensation if the cancellation was within the airline's control and given under 14 days notice.
The first 15 minutes decide whether you fly today. Rebook first, argue about money later.
Step by step
- Open the airline app and look for self-service rebooking before you join any queue.
- Simultaneously call the airline — phone queues often move faster than the desk.
- Search alternative routings yourself and request a specific flight by number.
- Ask for the cancellation reason in writing — it determines your compensation rights.
- Keep every receipt for meals, transport and hotel.
- Claim care costs (meals, accommodation) from the airline, not your insurer, first.
- File the statutory compensation claim afterwards, in writing, citing the flight number and date.
What it costs
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| EU/UK compensation | €250–€600 per passenger |
| Airline duty-of-care meals | Airline pays |
| Claim-handling firms | They keep 25–40% — claim yourself first |
Common questions
Does weather count?
No — extraordinary circumstances remove the cash compensation, but rerouting and care still apply.
Can I demand a refund instead?
Yes, but taking a refund usually ends the airline's duty to reroute you.
US flights?
No statutory cash compensation, but refunds for cancellations are mandatory if you decline rebooking.