Delayed or cancelled? What you can ask for

In the US

If the airline cancels your flight or changes it significantly and you choose not to travel, you are entitled to a refund to your original form of payment — not only a voucher. Many airlines also commit to meals, rebooking or hotels for delays within their control; the US Department of Transportation publishes each airline's commitments.

In the EU

EU Regulation 261/2004 covers flights departing from the EU, and flights into the EU on EU airlines. It gives you care (meals, and a hotel when needed) during long delays, a choice of refund or rebooking when a flight is cancelled, and in many cases fixed compensation that depends on the distance — unless the airline can show extraordinary circumstances, such as severe weather.

What to do on the day

• Ask the airline for the reason of the delay or cancellation, in writing if you can.
• Keep receipts for meals and hotels.
• Ask for rebooking before accepting a voucher if you want a refund.