Start with the seller and merchant of record
Find the original receipt and card statement. Start with the airline or agency that took the payment. A different agency may be unable to view or refund the ticket.
Airline cancellation versus voluntary cancellation
Your rights may differ when the airline cancels or makes a major change. The rules can be different when you choose not to fly.
The law may require a refund for some nonrefundable tickets. A cancellation you choose may lead to a credit or no value under the fare terms.
The 24-hour rule is not universal
Some direct airline sales come with a U.S. 24-hour hold or refund rule. That rule does not cover every travel-agency sale.
Ask the agency about its own 24-hour policy before you buy.
Agency service fees
An agency fee can be separate from the airfare. Before you buy, the agency should state the fee and its refund terms.
An airfare refund may not include an agency fee that was stated as nonrefundable.
What to gather
- Passenger name
- Route and travel dates
- Airline confirmation code
- 13-digit e-ticket number
- Original receipt
- Card-statement merchant name
- Notices of cancellation or schedule change
Urgent travel
If you leave soon or are at the airport, contact the operating airline for help. Review any refund after the urgent travel issue is handled.