Planning a long-awaited vacation is always exciting, especially when you've been counting down the days. But when your flight suddenly gets cancelled at the last minute, it can be a real letdown. All the fun and excitement can quickly turn into stress and hassle, especially when you're already packed and ready to go. It’s frustrating when your travel plans don’t go as expected, and it can feel like your holiday is ruined before it even starts.
What to Do When Your Flight Gets Cancelled
For Filipino travellers, a cancelled flight can be a real headache especially when you're excited for a much-needed vacation or rushing for an important trip. Flights can be cancelled for many reasons like bad weather, aircraft problems, or sudden changes in airline rules.
If this ever happens to you, don’t worry. In this guide, we’ll go over the important steps you need to take if your flight gets cancelled. That way, you can stay calm, handle the situation properly, and hopefully get your travel plans back on track.
1. Talk to the Airline and Ask for a New Flight
When your flight gets cancelled, here’s what you should do:
- Go to the airline counter at the airport or call their customer service right away.
- Use the airline’s app or website to check for rebooking or chat support.
- Politely explain that your flight was cancelled and ask for available rebooking options.
- Ask if you can be moved to the next available flight on the same day or the next day.
- If your flight is full, request to be placed on standby or ask if you can be rebooked on another route or partner airline.
- Stay flexible with your travel schedule so you can grab the earliest available option.
- Always stay calm and respectful—airline staff are more likely to assist if you’re polite.
- Prepare your documents: Have your booking reference number, valid ID, and itinerary ready.
2. Know Your Refund Options
If your flight gets cancelled, you may be wondering if you can get your money back. The good news is that most airlines offer different refund or compensation options, depending on the reason for the cancellation.
Here’s what Filipino travelers should know:
Ask the airline if you’re eligible for a refund.
If the cancellation is the airline’s fault (like a technical issue or lack of crew), you may be able to get a full refund.
Check if you can get a travel voucher or credit.
Some airlines may offer a voucher or travel credit instead of a cash refund. This can be used for future flights within a set period (usually 6 months to 1 year).
Understand your rights under Philippines law.
The Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) protects passengers in the Philippines. If your flight is cancelled without enough notice (usually less than 24 hours), you may be entitled to:
- A refund
- Rebooking without penalty
- Or even compensation in some cases
How Trip.com Can Help You With Flight Refunds
If you booked through Trip.com, you can contact their customer support for help with refunds. They can assist in processing the refund request with the airline.
Be patient with the process.
Refunds may take a few days to several weeks depending on the airline’s policy and how you paid (credit card, e-wallet, etc.).
3. Check If You Can Get Compensation
If your flight was cancelled, you might be able to get extra help from the airline—not just a refund or rebooking. Here’s what to know:
Find out if the cancellation was the airline’s fault.
If it was, you may qualify for compensation like cash or travel vouchers.
Know your rights under Philippine law.
The Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) says airlines should compensate passengers for cancellations that happen with little or no warning.
Compensation depends on the situation.
It may vary based on how long the delay is, the reason for cancellation, and how early the airline informed you.
What Compensation Can Airlines Offer?
Ask the airline what compensation they offer. They might give you meals, a hotel, or transport if you’re stuck waiting for a long time.
Keep all proof and documents.
Save your boarding pass, receipts, and any messages from the airline about the cancellation. This will help when asking for compensation.
Trip.com can help.
If you booked through Trip.com, their support team can guide you on compensation claims and communicate with the airline for you.
4. Reach Out to the Airline or Your Travel Agent
If your flight is cancelled, contact the airline or your travel agent right away. They can help with updates, rebooking, or refunds. Trip.com support is also ready to assist you.
- If your flight is cancelled, don’t hesitate to contact the airline for updates and more details.
- You can visit their ticket counter at the airport, call their hotline, or use their website or app.
- If you booked through a travel agent or Trip.com, you can also get in touch with them for help.
- Travel agents can assist with rebooking, refunds, or finding other travel options.
- Always keep your booking details handy when reaching out.
- Asking early and staying informed will help you make the best decisions for your trip.
Stay Calm and Know Your Options
Flight cancellations can be stressful, but knowing what to do makes a big difference. Contact the airline or your travel agent right away for help. And if you booked through Trip.com, their support team is ready to guide you every step of the way.