Effective Ways to Get a Refund for Your Flight Tickets

The process of obtaining a refund for canceled flights largely depends on the reason behind the cancellation and the country where the airline is registered.

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How to Claim a Refund When Your Flight Gets Canceled

For Tickets Purchased from Domestic Airlines

In recent years, flight disruptions have become more frequent. In 2020, many flights were canceled due to the pandemic. Currently, some southern airports remain non-operational. Additionally, airspace restrictions and bans have complicated international travel. Many airlines face challenges with leased aircraft that may be subject to seizure by lessors.

As a result, cancellations are common. Passengers are entitled to refunds since the airline failed to fulfill its service agreement. This applies even to non-refundable tickets because the airline did not provide the service.

To claim your money back, contact the point of purchase—either the airline directly or the booking platform. Contact details and procedures are usually available on their official websites. Often, travelers are offered a choice between a refund or rebooking on another flight.

Some airlines proactively notify affected passengers via email with clear instructions. In certain cases, refunds are processed automatically; for example, the airline 'Pobeda' commits to this approach.

For Tickets Purchased from International Airlines

Refund policies depend on the laws of the airline's home country and applicable international agreements. However, airlines generally comply with refund requests for canceled flights.

For instance, the U.S. Department of Transportation mandates refunds for canceled flights, and the European Union regulations provide similar protections.

While international booking platforms might be slow to respond initially, persistence significantly increases your chances of a successful refund. Stay firm and demand your rights.

How to Get a Refund if You Decide Not to Travel

For Tickets Purchased from Domestic Airlines

If your ticket is refundable, you can get your money back by notifying the airline at least 24 hours before the check-in deadline. If you cancel within the last 24 hours before check-in closes, expect to receive 75% of the ticket price. No refund is available if you cancel after check-in has started.

For non-refundable tickets, refunds are only possible under certain conditions such as illness of the passenger or companion, death of a close relative, or if the airline cancels the flight. Supporting documents like medical certificates or death certificates are required to validate these claims.

For Tickets Purchased from International Airlines

Refund policies vary by airline and country. Check the airline’s or booking platform’s website for specific terms. Some countries require passengers to seek compensation through insurance rather than the airline, especially for illness-related cancellations, so refunds may not always be available.

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