Navigating Ryanair’s Flight Cancellations: A Guide to Refunds and Rebooking

Ryanair Flight Cancellations: How to Get a Refund or Rebook

Introduction

Over the past few days, hundreds of flights in the UK, including those operated by Ryanair, have been cancelled due to a technical issue with the UK air traffic control system. Passengers affected by these cancellations are now seeking information about their rights and how to get a refund or rebook their flights. This article aims to provide guidance on these matters.

Your Rights on Ryanair Cancelled Flights

Ryanair‘s website states that if you are informed of a flight cancellation less than 14 days before the scheduled departure time, you have a few options. Firstly, you can request a refund for your cancelled flight. Alternatively, you have the right to change your flight to new times or dates on the same route for free. In addition, you can also request to be re-routed to your final destination under comparable transport conditions, subject to seat availability. Ryanair advises passengers to contact them if suitable Ryanair flights are not available, as they can provide airport assistance and help with making alternative arrangements.

Re-booking Flights Yourself

If you are advised by Ryanair to re-book the flights yourself, the airline states that you can submit your receipts for a refund of your costs. However, it is important to note that if you choose to be re-routed at a later date at your convenience or if you opt for a refund, the care entitlements provided by Ryanair, such as meals, refreshments, telephone calls, accommodation, and transport, are no longer applicable.

Flight Delay or Cancellation Compensation

If you experience a flight delay or cancellation and choose to be re-routed as soon as possible, you may be entitled to certain compensations from Ryanair. This includes reasonable meals and refreshments in relation to the waiting time, two telephone calls or emails, reasonable hotel accommodation if a stay of one or more nights becomes necessary, and reasonable transport between the airport and the place of accommodation. However, if you decide to be re-routed at a later date at your convenience or if you opt for a refund, these care entitlements do not apply.

Flight Compensation Claim

If you wish to submit expenses for travel, transport, refreshments, or make a compensation claim following a flight cancellation or delay of over 3 hours on arrival, Ryanair provides a Passenger Rights claim form on their website. It is important to note that compensation will not be paid out by Ryanair if the delay or cancellation is deemed to be outside of the airline’s control, if you were notified of a cancellation more than 14 days in advance, or if your flight arrived at its final destination with a delay of less than 3 hours.

Compensation Amounts

Under the UK Air Passengers Rights 2019, compensation amounts vary based on the distance of the affected flight. For flights traveling a distance of 1,500km or less, passengers can receive £220 in compensation. This amount increases to £350 for distances between 1,500km and 3,500km, and £520 for longer flights.

Conclusion

As passengers continue to grapple with the aftermath of the Ryanair flight cancellations, it is important to understand your rights and options for refunds or rebooking. Ryanair‘s website provides detailed information on how to contact the airline for assistance and make alternative arrangements. Remember to keep records of your communication with the airline and any expenses incurred. If you believe you are entitled to compensation, utilize the Passenger Rights claim form provided by Ryanair. In this challenging time for air travel, staying informed and proactive is crucial.