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British Airways·oneworld
British Airways refund rules: refundable vs non-refundable fares, travel credit validity, and when US DOT rules entitle you to cash back instead of a voucher.
Key Travel Facts & Insights
Flexible fares refund to the original form of payment.
Restricted fares are non-refundable, but the government taxes and airport charges component remains refundable even on an unused non-refundable ticket. BA does not volunteer this.
BA eVouchers are generally valid for a defined period from issue — check the specific voucher.
For flights departing the UK or EU, UK261/EU261 applies: cash compensation between £220 and £520 per passenger for cancellations with under 14 days' notice and for arrival delays over three hours, unless caused by extraordinary circumstances. This is separate from and additional to a refund, and it applies to US citizens too.
No-show forfeits the fare on restricted tickets, though government taxes remain refundable — always claim them, as this can be a meaningful sum on a long-haul ticket.
Manage My Booking on ba.com handles changes, seat selection and refund requests including tax refunds on unused tickets.
BA's customer relations form is the first step. For UK/EU departures, unresolved EU261 claims can go to CEDR, BA's alternative dispute resolution body, or the UK Civil Aviation Authority.
Flexible fares refund to the original form of payment. Restricted fares are non-refundable, but the government taxes and airport charges component remains refundable even on an unused non-refundable ticket. BA does not volunteer this.
BA eVouchers are generally valid for a defined period from issue — check the specific voucher.
For flights departing the UK or EU, UK261/EU261 applies: cash compensation between £220 and £520 per passenger for cancellations with under 14 days' notice and for arrival delays over three hours, unless caused by extraordinary circumstances. This is separate from and additional to a refund, and it applies to US citizens too.
Fare rules, baggage allowances and change policies differ by route and fare brand. Our consultants confirm the exact terms attached to your itinerary before you pay — and handle the change or refund if plans move.