How to Request a Refund for a Cancelled Flight
Your flight got cancelled and you deserve your money back. Airlines count on you giving up. Do not. Here is how to request a refund clearly.
Clear Refund Demand
RecommendedDear [Airline] Customer Service, I am writing to request a full refund for my cancelled flight. Booking Details: - Confirmation Number: [Number] - Flight: [Flight Number] - Route: [Departure City] to [Destination] - Original Date: [Date] - Passenger: [Your Name] The flight was cancelled by [Airline Name] on [date of cancellation]. Per [DOT regulations / EU261 if applicable / airline policy], I am entitled to a full refund to my original form of payment. I am requesting the refund be processed within [14 days per DOT regulations / applicable timeline]. Please confirm receipt of this request and provide a timeline for processing. Thank you for your prompt attention. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Email] [Phone]
Subject Line
Refund Request - Cancelled Flight [Flight Number] - [Date]
Alternative Versions
More Direct Version
directDear [Airline], Flight [Number] on [Date] was cancelled by the airline. I am requesting a full refund to my original payment method. Booking: [Reference]. Process within 14 days per DOT rules. [Your Name]
Warmer Version
warmDear [Airline] Customer Service, I understand cancellations happen and I appreciate your team handling a difficult situation. That said, I would like to request a full refund for my cancelled flight [Number] on [Date]. I would prefer a refund to my original payment method rather than a voucher. My booking reference is [Number]. Thank you for your help with this! [Your Name]
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When to Use This
Send this when: - The airline cancelled your flight - You do not want a voucher or rebooking - You want a refund to your original payment method - The airline has not proactively offered a refund
What Not to Say
Avoid: - Accepting a voucher if you want cash back - Waiting too long to submit your request - Being rude to customer service agents - Forgetting to cite your rights - Not keeping a copy of all correspondence