Cancelled flight:rerouting on another airline
Rerouting should take you to the final destination under comparable conditions at the earliest opportunity. A seat available on another carrier may therefore be relevant.
This guide provides general information. Eligibility always depends on the precise facts and the rules applicable to the case.
Ask for the fastest reasonable option, not only the airline’s next flight
The carrier should look for comparable rerouting. Where its own network creates an excessive wait, an option operated by another airline should be examined.
Before buying anything yourself, request the booking in writing, keep any refusal and compare proportionate alternatives.
Compensation of up to €600 may apply
Where the applicable conditions are met, the fixed amount mainly depends on the flight distance.
These amounts are never automatic: notice, rerouting, cause and supporting evidence must all be checked.
Ask for the fastest reasonable option, not only the airline’s next flight
Same destination
The alternative should reach the final destination or another agreed point.
Comparable conditions
Class, baggage, connections and accessibility should be considered.
Available schedule
Capture seats offered by other airlines.
Airline response
Request approval or refusal in writing.
How to request another carrier
Find an option
Identify a realistic, available and comparable journey.
Request it in writing
Send the alternative flight number and time.
Keep the refusal
Save screenshots, messages and displayed price.
Self-book cautiously
Only purchase after documenting the absence of a suitable solution.
Ticket reimbursement and rerouting are different choices
If the airline unilaterally refunds the original ticket without offering the choice, keep proof: the extra cost of a comparable replacement may become relevant.
Three mistakes to avoid
Accepting too quickly
Choosing reimbursement may end the right to rerouting.
Buying luxury
A disproportionate fare or upgrade is more likely to be challenged.
Missing evidence
Capture availability, price, request and airline response.
Documents you should keep
Booking confirmation
Keep the ticket, flight number and complete itinerary.
Cancellation or delay notice
Save emails, text messages and notifications with their date.
Option offered
Capture the rerouting, refund or refusal communicated by the airline.
Actual times
Record departure and arrival times for any replacement journey.
Precise reason
Request a written explanation and evidence that can be checked.
Itemised receipts
Keep proof of necessary and reasonable expenses.
Your claim in four steps
Enter the flight
Add the flight number, date and complete itinerary.
Describe the disruption
State the times, notice period and reason given.
Attach evidence
Provide messages, booking documents and useful receipts.
Check your rights
The case is assessed before any action is taken.
Related pages to read
Frequently asked questions — Rerouting on another airline
Must the airline book a competitor?
Another carrier may be relevant where it provides comparable rerouting at the earliest opportunity.
Can I buy the ticket myself?
Proceed cautiously after requesting a solution and documenting the lack of a suitable response.
Must I accept a refund?
You should normally be offered a choice between reimbursement and rerouting options.
Must the new ticket be in the same class?
Conditions should be comparable; avoid an unjustified upgrade.
Can I claim the fare difference?
It may be relevant where the airline failed to offer the choice or proper rerouting.
What should I keep?
Availability screenshots, fares, correspondence, booking and payment proof.
Could your flight qualify for compensation?
Enter your journey details for an initial assessment with no upfront fee.