What to Do If Your Flight Gets Canceled — And How to Avoid It

No one likes surprises at the airport — especially when your long-awaited flight vanishes off the departure board. Here’s how to dodge flight cancellations when you can, and what your rights are if you can’t.

Can You Avoid Flight Cancellations?

You can’t control the weather, but you can improve your odds. Here’s how:

1. Choose early flights.
Morning flights are statistically less likely to be canceled. Crews and aircraft are already in place, and delays haven’t yet had a chance to snowball.

2. Fly non-stop when possible.
The more connections, the more chances something goes wrong. Direct flights reduce your exposure to delays and missed links.

3. Check airline reliability.
Some airlines cancel more than others. Use sites like FlightAware or the U.S. Department of Transportation’s performance reports to check reliability.

4. Avoid tight connections and bad-weather hubs.
In winter, avoid airports known for snow delays (looking at you, Chicago). In summer, steer clear of storm-prone areas.

5. Book directly with the airline.
If a third-party site booked your ticket, changes can be a bureaucratic nightmare. Airlines prioritize their direct customers when rebooking.

What Are Your Rights If Your Flight Is Canceled?

Your rights vary by region, but here’s what you can usually expect:

In the U.S.

There’s no legal requirement to compensate you for a canceled flight unless you were involuntarily bumped. However:

• Airlines must refund your money if they cancel your flight and you choose not to travel.

• They may rebook you on the next available flight — but this isn’t guaranteed unless specified in your fare.

In the EU (Regulation EC 261/2004):

If your flight was within the EU or operated by an EU airline, and canceled less than 14 days before departure, you may be entitled to:

• Up to €600 in compensation (depending on distance)

• A full refund or rebooking

• Meals, communication, and accommodation in case of long delays

Israel (Aviation Services Law):

If your flight from or to Israel is canceled:

• You may be entitled to compensation between 1,300 to 3,100 ILS, depending on flight length

• Meals, hotel stay, and transport must be provided when delays require it

• Refunds or alternate transportation options must be offered

Pro Traveler Tip:

Always have travel insurance that covers flight cancellations, especially if you’re connecting to a cruise, event, or another unmissable deadline. Read the fine print: some policies only cover “covered reasons,” not airline faults.

Final Boarding Call:

Cancellations are frustrating, but being informed is your best defense. Know your rights, book smart, and when in doubt — ask for everything in writing.