How to get a refund for a cancelled British Airways flight

If British Airways cancelled your flight, you are entitled to a full refund for the unused portion of your ticket. Don't settle for vouchers if you prefer your money back. Knowing your rights makes the process straightforward.

Reviewed by Corey Musa, Founder·Last reviewed June 2026·LinkedIn

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Your rights

Under UK law (The Air Passenger Rights and Air Travel Organisers' Licensing (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019, which mirrors EU Regulation 261/2004), if your flight is cancelled, British Airways must offer you a choice between a full refund for the unused flight segment or re-routing to your final destination at the earliest opportunity. This applies regardless of the reason for the cancellation.

Step by step

1Check your email and British Airways' 'Manage My Booking' section for official cancellation notices and refund options.
2Request a cash refund directly from British Airways. Do this online via their refund request form, or by calling their customer service. Clearly state you want a cash refund, not a voucher.
3If British Airways denies your refund or only offers a voucher, escalate your complaint. Contact the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) or an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) body like CEDR (Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution) if BA is a member.
4If all direct attempts fail, consider initiating a chargeback through your bank or credit card provider. This is often a last resort, but can be effective if you paid by card.

What they'll say, and your comeback

“We can only offer you a flight voucher or credit for future travel.”

Comeback, Under UK law, specifically the Air Passenger Rights Regulations, I am entitled to a full cash refund for my cancelled flight. I am not obliged to accept a voucher.

“The cancellation was due to extraordinary circumstances, so a refund isn't possible.”

Comeback, While extraordinary circumstances might affect my right to compensation, they do not remove my right to a full refund for the cancelled flight under UK Air Passenger Rights Regulations.

FAQ

Am I also entitled to compensation for a cancelled British Airways flight?

You might be entitled to additional compensation if your flight was cancelled less than 14 days before departure and the cancellation was within British Airways' control, not due to 'extraordinary circumstances' like severe weather or political instability. This is separate from your right to a refund.

What if I booked my British Airways flight through a travel agent?

If you booked through a travel agent, you should first contact them to process the refund. However, British Airways remains ultimately responsible for issuing the refund for the cancelled flight. If the agent is unhelpful, you can contact BA directly.

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A self-serve tool, not a law firm. General information, not legal advice.