‘Tis the season of holiday travel—and flight cancellations. Over the last several weeks, thousands of flights have been canceled across the country. With the historic government shutdown coming to its bitter end, the end of travel insanity will take a month or more to return to normal.
Travel is at a record high this time of year. Prices for plane tickets have skyrocketed. So, what happens when a flight is canceled? Do you get money back, or do you have to eat the loss? It’s wise to know what your options are in the event your flight is canceled.
Here are some key factors you should know about whether or not airlines owe you money for a canceled flight:
Why Flights are Canceled
During the peak travel days of the government shutdown, over 9,000 flights were canceled. That’s an average of over 400 flights each day! And, while those cancellations will drop as the air traffic system is restored to full strength, you can expect some disruptions during this 2025 Holiday Travel Season. Here are the top reasons airline flights are canceled:
- Air traffic control constraints—Air traffic Controllers Staffing shortages has been the major reason for cancellations during the two-month government shutdown. Staffing shortages has been a nagging issue for the Federal government for several years, but with so many controllers not getting paid, this led to more cancellations and delays as flights need to be managed. This is particularly the case during heavy travel seasons such as the holidays.
- Weather conditions—Both in the summer and winter, inclement weather can cause flight issues.
- Staffing shortages—Many airlines currently face staffing shortages. This includes airport workers and pilots.
- Operational issues—From the heart-wrenching plane crashes of 2025 alone to recent connectivity issues across the country, operational issues are a huge disruptor.
- Global disruptions—Global issues like weather across the pond affect airlines. Strikes also cause airlines to cancel many flights.
What Happens When Flights are Canceled?
When your flight is canceled, you should move quickly. First, look for rebooking options online or at the ticket counter. The moment you know your flight is canceled is the time to act.
Many airlines offer the option to rebook the flight with no additional fees attached. Be sure to contact your airline’s customer service, but be prepared for long telephone wait times. Know that the faster you contact your airline or travel agent, the quicker the process can go.
Does the Airline Owe You Money?
Your next question may be whether or not the airline owes you money. In short, it is possible that the airline may be able to compensate you for a canceled flight. Whether it be a refund or a flight credit, stranded passengers want to be compensated.
You have the option to request hotel accommodations or even meal vouchers. Everything is dependent upon your specific situation. A customer service agent from your specific airline can assist you with the proper compensation for the inconvenience of a canceled flight.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, airlines are legally required to compensate you on some level. Policies on refunds and accommodations vary from airline to airline, and should the issue be within their control, such as staffing shortages or maintenance issues.
Many airlines offer the following options:
- Providing a cash or meal voucher for anyone waiting at least 3 hours for a different flight
- Rebooking the passengers on the same or partner airline with no extra fees
- Providing a travel credit or voucher
- Providing complimentary hotel accommodations should the traveler be interrupted by an overnight flight cancellation, but don’t expect a four or five-star resort hotel!
- Providing complimentary ground transportation to and from the hotel for the traveler interrupted by an overnight flight cancellation
Please note that not all airlines offer these complimentary services and hotel accommodations. Check with a customer service agent on your respective airline or your travel agent. It times of high air travel disruption, travel insurance might be a good investment.
Bottom Line
As the holiday travel season kicks into high gear, know that a delay or cancellation may be inevitable. With inclement weather, the government shutdown, lack of pilots and airport staff, and maintenance issues, be prepared.
If your flight unfortunately does get canceled, know that you can receive some form of compensation. Whether it be a meal or ticket voucher, travel credit, or your flight being rebooked at no additional charge, you can rest assured you will get to your destination.
