British Airways·oneworld
British Airways Cancellation & Refund Policy
British Airways Cancellation & Refund Policy — Summary
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
- Refundable fares: Flexible fares refund to the original form of payment..
- Non-refundable fares: Restricted fares are non-refundable, but the government taxes and airport charges component remains refundable even on an unused non-refundable ticket.
- How long credits last: BA eVouchers are generally valid for a defined period from issue — check the specific voucher..
- Your rights when the airline cancels: 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.
Refundable fares
Flexible fares refund to the original form of payment.
Non-refundable fares
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.
How long credits last
BA eVouchers are generally valid for a defined period from issue — check the specific voucher.
Your rights when the airline cancels
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.
Cancelling before departure
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.
How to request a refund
Manage My Booking on ba.com handles changes, seat selection and refund requests including tax refunds on unused tickets.
If the airline does not respond
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.
British Airways cancellations & refunds — common questions
Can I get a refund from British Airways?
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.
How long is a British Airways travel credit valid?
BA eVouchers are generally valid for a defined period from issue — check the specific voucher.
Do I get cash back if British Airways cancels my flight?
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.
More British Airways help
Booking British Airways? Talk to a US travel consultant.
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.