Updated Nov 13, 2026

Flight cancelled: what to do in the next 30 minutes

Don't accept the first rebooking by reflex. Check the new times, decide if you still want to fly, and know that turning down the rebooking and any credit gets you a full refund. Then line up a backup: another flight, a car, or a hotel if it's overnight.

Step 1: Check what the airline already changed

Open the airline's app or check your email. The airline may have already rebooked you on a later flight. Look at the new departure and arrival times. Is it the same day? Are you connecting through a different city?

Don't click "accept" yet—just gather the information.

Step 2: Decide—fly or refund?

You have two options:

Take the rebooking and fly on the new schedule
Decline and get a full refund to your original payment method

If you decline the rebooking and don't accept a credit or voucher, the airline must refund your fare, taxes, and paid extras. See our flight cancelled refund guide for details.

Step 3: Rebook faster—app and phone line at once

If you want to fly, speed matters. Lines are long and seats fill up. Open the airline's app and try to rebook there while also calling the customer service number. Whichever gets through first wins.

Pro tip: Ask about partner airlines. If your airline can't get you out today, they may be able to book you on a partner at no extra cost.

Step 4: Look at other airlines and rental cars

Your airline isn't the only option. Check:

Other airlines: A last-minute ticket on a competitor might be worth it
Rental cars: For trips under 5 hours, driving can beat waiting for tomorrow's flight
Trains: On some routes (Northeast Corridor, California), Amtrak is competitive

If you booked the cancelled flight, you can get a refund for it and buy a ticket on another airline. The refund doesn't lock you into flying with the original airline.

Step 5: Ask for meals or a hotel

If the airline caused the cancellation (not weather or ATC), they often provide:

Meal vouchers after a 3-hour wait
Hotel accommodation for overnight cancellations
Ground transport to and from the hotel

This isn't required by law—it's an airline commitment. Check the DOT dashboard to see what your airline promises. Ask at the gate or call—the worst they can say is no.

Step 6: Save receipts and screenshots

Before you leave the airport or close the app:

Screenshot the cancellation notice and any delay information
Keep receipts for meals, transport, and any hotel you book yourself
Save your boarding pass and booking confirmation

You may need these later if you're requesting reimbursement or filing a complaint with DOT.

What about missed connections and diversions?

Missed connection: If you miss a connecting flight because your first flight was delayed or cancelled, the airline should rebook you. If the delay to your final destination hits the 3-hour (domestic) or 6-hour (international) threshold, refund rights apply.

Diversion: If your plane lands at a different airport, the airline should provide transport to your original destination or airport. If they can't get you there in a reasonable time, ask about refund options.

Rerouted does steps 1, 2, and 4 in one screen

Enter your flight number below to see the current status, know your refund rights, and find alternative flights or rental cars—all in one place.

Related guides

Last checked against DOT rules: 2026-11-13