Brussels Airlines refund for cancellation.
Are you eligible to it? If so, what are the applicable rules?
European Regulation (EC) No 261/2004 provides a comprehensive framework for passenger rights and the obligations of airlines. It clearly defines the rules and regulations that apply to ensure a fair and satisfactory experience for passengers. This regulation also outlines the specific actions that airlines must take in the event of flight cancellations, along with the entitlements that passengers have in such circumstances. You may have a right to refund or compensation (or both) if your flight has been cancelled.
Brussels Airlines Refund For Cancellation
There are two possible scenarios to consider regarding your Brussels Airlines flight cancellation. Let’s address them separately.
Let’s start with a question — when was your flight cancelled?
Scenario 1: Flight Is Cancelled Less Than 2 Weeks Before the Trip
You can get: Refund or new flight + compensation (if it’s due to the fault of the airline).
If your flight is canceled by Brussels Airlines less than 14 days of your scheduled departure, it is considered a last-minute flight cancellation.
You are entitled to the following options:
- Refund: You have the right to receive a full refund for the cost of your ticket.
- New flight: Brussels Airlines offers the alternative of rebooking you on a new flight that will take you to your intended destination.
You have the freedom to choose between a refund or a new flight, based on your preference.
Additionally, if the flight cancellation is attributed to Brussels Airline’s fault, you may be eligible for flight cancellation compensation. This compensation is provided in recognition of the inconvenience caused. Both the refund and any applicable compensation will be transferred to your designated bank account.
Please note that this policy applies specifically to last-minute flight cancellations by Brussels Airlines occurring less than 14 days of your planned departure.
Check your compensation online!
Read more: Brussels Airlines flight cancellation compensation
Scenario 2: Flight Is Cancelled More Than 2 Weeks Before the Trip
You can get: Refund or new flight to your destination.
If your Brussels Airlines flight is canceled more than 14 days before your scheduled departure, the following options are available to you:
- Refund: Despite not being eligible for compensation in this scenario, you have the right to request a Brussels Airlines refund for cancellation.
- New flight: Brussels Airlines is obligated to provide you with the alternative of rebooking your flight to your intended destination.
You have the freedom to choose between receiving a refund or opting for a new flight, based on your preference and travel needs. It is important to note that, unlike Scenario 1, compensation is not applicable in this case.
Brussels Airlines aims to process your refund within a period of 7 days.
What If You Miss a Connecting Flight Due to Cancellation?
In the event that your connecting flight is missed due to a flight cancellation, Brussels Airlines ensures that you are properly taken care of. Here’s what you can expect:
- Rebooking: Brussels Airlines will arrange a new flight for you, free of charge, to ensure you reach your intended destination.
- Right to care: While you wait for your new connecting flight, you are entitled to receive care from the airline. Right to care means getting free meals, refreshments and, if necessary, a free hotel stay.
- Compensation: In some situations, you may be entitled to compensation. Regarding compensation, similar rules apply as they do for delayed flights. It is advisable to assess the delay in your overall arrival time at the destination compared to the original scheduled arrival. If the delay amounts to 2 hours or more, you may be eligible for compensation.
To learn more about missed connection compensation and the specific guidelines, see our guide to Brussels Airlines missed connection compensation.
Brussels Airlines Cancelled Flight Refund: FAQ
1. If My Flight Is Cancelled, Do I Get a Refund?
If you are flying with Brussels Airlines, and it’s a flight from or to Europe, then yes, you are entitled to a Brussels Airlines refund for cancellation. You have the option to choose either a refund or rebooking, but not both.
In cases where Brussels Airlines cancels your flight less than 14 days before the scheduled departure and the cancellation is due to their fault, you may be eligible for both a refund (or new flight) and compensation for the flight cancellation.
2. Brussels Airlines Voucher Refund or Cash, Can I Get Money?
What if Brussels Airlines issues a voucher as compensation instead of cash?
If Brussels Airlines, offers you a voucher as an alternative to monetary compensation, you have the right to decline and request a cash refund instead. It is essential to be aware that European Union regulations (Regulation (EC) No 261/2004) mandate airlines to provide compensation and refunds in the form of cash or bank transfers.
Have you already received a Brussels Airlines voucher?
You can contact the airline, and request to convert your travel voucher into a cash refund.
3. Brussels Airlines Refusing Refund For Cancellation?
After submitting your refund request, it’s important to follow up with the airline to ensure that it’s being processed. Keep track of any confirmation numbers or reference codes provided by the airline, and don’t be afraid to reach out if you haven’t heard back within a reasonable timeframe. Persistence is key, and often multiple follow-ups can help expedite the process.
You can refer to Regulation (EC) No 261/2004, specifically Articles 5 and 8, which stipulate that airlines must offer refunds to passengers in certain situations.
If Brussels Airlines continues to be uncooperative, you can seek assistance by contacting the national enforcement body in the country where your flight originated for further guidance and support.
Read more: Your Brussels Airlines Refund Is Taking Forever. What Can You Do About It?
4. Can You Get Both Compensation and Refund?
Yes, there are circumstances where you are entitled to receive both compensation and a refund.
If Brussels Airlines cancels your flight less than 14 days before departure due to their error, you have the right to receive a full refund and compensation from the airline. It is important to note that both the refund and compensation should be provided through a bank transfer to your designated account and not in the form of vouchers.
If you have already been issued a voucher or coupon by Brussels Airlines, you can request to exchange it for a cash refund by contacting Brussels Airlines directly.
Regardless of the situation, it is essential to remember that you have the right to receive care and assistance as well.
5. How Long Does It Take To Receive a Refund After a Cancelled Flight?
When opting for a flight refund, it is important to note that the airline is legally obligated to provide it within 7 days. The refund should be issued in cash or through electronic bank transfer.
6. How to Obtain a Refund for a Cancelled Flight?
The process for obtaining a refund for a cancelled flight varies among airlines.
Here are some general guidelines:
- Check the airline’s “My Bookings” section on their website where you may request a refund.
- Some airlines provide specific refund request forms that need to be filled out.
- In certain cases, contacting the airline directly via phone may be necessary to initiate the refund process.
For detailed information on the specific procedures and requirements, visit the airline’s official website.
7. What is Brussels Airlines’ Policy for Cancelled Flights?
Brussels Airlines, abiding by European Regulation (EC) No 261/2004, provides passengers with rights in the event of a flight cancellation. If Brussels Airlines cancels your flight, you have the right to either a full refund, a new flight to your intended destination, or a re-routing under comparable conditions at a later date.
Moreover, if the cancellation happens less than 14 days before the planned departure and it’s due to circumstances within the airline’s control, you may be eligible for compensation.
8. What Happens If I Cancel My Flight with Brussels Airlines?
If you cancel your flight with Brussels Airlines, the consequences depend on the type of ticket you purchased. Some fares are fully refundable while others are non-refundable.
Refundable tickets can be cancelled for a full or partial refund depending on the terms and conditions of the ticket, whereas non-refundable tickets will not receive any refund. However, in some circumstances, the airline may offer a voucher or the chance to rebook your flight for a later date.
Always check the fare rules and restrictions before making a booking.
By Europe and EU here on this page (and on this website in general) we mean all EU Member States, the United Kingdom (UK), Guadeloupe, French Guiana, Martinique, Reunion, Mayotte, Saint Martin (French Antilles), the Azores, Madeira, the Canary Islands, Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland.