Call, use the app and chat at the same time. Whichever answers first wins the seat. Direct numbers for every major U.S. and Canadian airline, plus what to say and what you're owed.
Start a rebooking in the app while you wait on hold. Most airlines let you pick a new flight yourself after a cancellation.
If you have elite status or the airline's credit card, use the number on the back of your card or in the app. Those lines are usually shorter.
Ask for a callback if the airline offers one, so you can keep your place without staying on hold.
Abroad? Calling the airline's office in another country, or messaging on its official social accounts, can be faster during big disruptions.
What to say
"My flight [number] on [date] was cancelled. Please rebook me on the next available flight to [city], including partner airlines. If that doesn't work, I'd like a full cash refund."
What you're owed
In the U.S., a cancellation you didn't cause means a cash refund if you decline the new flight. On flights to or from Europe, the UK or Canada, you may also be owed compensation of up to €600 or CA$1,000.
Tip: the app is usually faster than the phone line or the counter. Try all three at once.
Your rights
Do I get a refund?
Under U.S. DOT rules, if your airline cancels your flight or changes it significantly (3+ hours domestic, 6+ international) and you turn down the alternative, you're owed a cash refund to your original payment method. You don't have to accept a voucher.
Will they pay for my hotel or meals?
No federal law requires it. Many airlines commit to meals or hotels for delays they control. Weather and FAA air traffic holds usually don't count. Check the DOT dashboard for your airline.
Should I rebook now?
If your flight is cancelled, rebook in the app while you wait in line or on hold. Seats go fast. If it's only delayed, wait for an update before giving up your seat.
Why is there a ground stop?
Common reasons are weather (wind, thunderstorms, low visibility), equipment outages, staffing shortages and runway problems. The FAA status feed lists the reason for each active stop or delay program.
How long do ground stops last?
Most last 30 minutes to a few hours. The FAA often posts an expected end time and can extend or lift it early.
Do I get compensation for a delayed flight?
In the U.S., airlines don't owe cash compensation for delays, though many offer meals or hotels for delays they cause. In Canada, the Air Passenger Protection Regulations can require compensation for delays within the airline's control. In the EU and UK, EC 261 can apply.
What if I miss my connection?
If both flights are on one ticket, the airline must rebook you at no cost. Ask for the next available flight, including partner airlines.
Copy-paste scripts
Hi, my flight [FLIGHT #] on [DATE] was cancelled. I'd like to be rebooked on the next available flight to [CITY], including partner airlines. If none works, I'm requesting a full cash refund under DOT rules.
Hi, my flight [FLIGHT #] on [DATE] was cancelled and I'm not accepting the rebooking offered. Under the DOT refund rule I'm requesting a full refund to my original form of payment, not a voucher or credit. Booking code: [CODE].
Hi, my flight [FLIGHT #] was cancelled and I'm stuck overnight in [CITY]. Does your customer service plan cover a hotel or meal voucher for this disruption? Thanks for your help.
Get an alert
This page links to official sources and doesn't track individual flights. Always confirm with your airline.