12 Flight Cancellation Refund Rules Every Passenger Should Know (2025 Update)

6. When rebooking is offered: your rights

Rule summary: Airlines commonly offer rebooking or vouchers after cancellations. Under the DOT rule, passengers must be given the choice: accept rebooking or request a cash refund. You do not have to take a voucher unless you prefer it. This right is useful when schedules don’t match your plans or vouchers have restrictions you won’t use. How to respond at the counter: if an agent offers a voucher, reply that you understand the option but that you prefer a refund to your original payment method. Ask for a written confirmation (email or SMS) that a refund will be processed if that’s your choice. If you accept rebooking but later find the new schedule unsuitable, check whether you can still request a refund—some refunds remain available if rebooking happens under a qualifying significant change. Example: you’re offered a same-day routing that adds five hours of travel time. Politely decline the rebooking and request a cash refund. Keep the agent’s name and the confirmation details in case you need to escalate.