All you can do if your flight is cancelled or delayed – and how law protects you

UK consumer law is also abundantly clear on cancelled packages – you get a cash refund if this is your preference. If you are arranging your own travel, it’s savvy to pay on a credit card

You could be entitled to compensation from the carrier if your flight is delayed – this varies with the duration of the journey and the destination country.

If your plane is cancelled, you can request a refund or ask for a replacement flight.

You may also be able to log a claim through your travel insurance – I always recommend buying a suitable policy as soon as you book a trip abroad, or have an annual policy in place, which can be better value if you travel several times a year.

We are clearly still in uncertain times for travelling overseas, so I also strongly suggest buying package holidays with the Civil Aviation Authority’s comprehensive ATOL (Air Travel Organiser’s Licence) protection in case of airline or tour operator failures.

UK consumer law is also abundantly clear on cancelled packages – you get a cash refund if this is your preference. The Package Travel Regulations 2018 say holidaymakers are entitled to a full refund within 14 days of the cancellation being known.

And if you are arranging your own travel, it’s savvy to pay on a credit card – then you’re covered for up to £30,000 under section 75 of the UK Consumer Credit Act, though this may not apply to bookings made via a third party.

Also, anyone still looking to book getaways this summer and beyond should definitely consider using a professional travel agent who will provide advice and help if flights are cancelled or rescheduled.

What if my flight is delayed?

It varies on where it is long, medium, or short-haul and the length of the delay.But you should be given a reasonable amount of food and drink (usually via vouchers), refunds for the cost of any phone calls, and a hotel if you are delayed to the next day, with transport to it.

What if I am denied boarding?

If you did not volunteer to be ‘bumped’ from the flight for agreed recompense, you are entitled to compensation, providing you checked-in on time.Like delays, levels vary depending on the flight duration and the timings of the alternative journey.

It can be as much as £520 per person.Again, you are entitled to food, drink and accommodation if necessary. If you don’t want to go, you’ll be refunded for all parts of the ticket you have not used.

What if my flight is cancelled?

Much the same as above, though if there are too many passengers for the staff on duty to cope with, and you have to fend for yourself and end up paying for things, then make sure you keep all receipts and be reasonable with costs.

An airline is not likely to reimburse you for staying at a five-star hotel and buying alcoholic drinks.