Flight Cancelled? Here’s Exactly What You Should Do (A Canadian Traveller’s Guide)

Passengers waiting during a flight cancellation

1. Stay Calm and confirm the Cancellation when the flight is cancelled

First things first—confirm the cancellation through:

• The airline’s mobile app

• Airport departure boards

• Your email or text notifications

  
  

Once confirmed, check why the flight was cancelled. The reason matters, especially when it comes to compensation and rebooking.

2. Know Your Rights as a Canadian Traveller

Canada’s Air Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR) outline what airlines owe you when flights are cancelled.

If the cancellation is within the airline’s control (mechanical issues, staffing, scheduling):

Airlines must:

• Rebook you on the next available flight, including with another airline if needed

• Or offer a refund if you choose not to travel

  
  

Compensation amounts may apply:

• $400 for delays of 3 to 6 hours

• $700 for delays of 6 to 9 hours

• $1,000 for delays of 9+ hours

(Compensation applies to large and some medium airlines; conditions apply.)

If the cancellation is outside the airline’s control (weather, safety, air traffic control):

• The airline must still rebook or refund, but

• Cash compensation is not required under APPR

  
  

If the cancellation is for safety-related reasons:

• Rebooking or refund applies

• No additional compensation is required

  
  

3. Rebook Immediately (Speed Matters)

Time is critical when flights are cancelled.

Do this right away:

• Open the airline app and try rebooking yourself

• Call the airline while also standing in line at the airport

• Ask about alternate routes, nearby airports, or partner airlines

  
  

💡 Pro tip: Sometimes routing through a different city gets you moving faster than waiting for the next direct flight.

4. Ask About Meals, Hotels, and Transportation

If the cancellation causes an overnight delay and is within the airline’s control, they may need to cover:

• Hotel accommodation

• Meals

• Ground transportation

  
  

Always ask what the airline will provide before booking on your own.

5. Keep All Receipts and Documentation

Even if the airline doesn’t immediately cover expenses:

• Save receipts for meals, hotels, taxis, and transportation

• Screenshot notifications and boarding passes

• Note the names of airline agents you speak with

  
  

These documents are essential for:

• Airline claims

• Travel insurance reimbursement

  
  

  

  Flight Cancellation Infographic

6. Know When Travel Insurance Helps

Travel insurance can be a lifesaver during cancellations, especially when:

• The disruption is weather-related

• You miss a connection

• Additional nights or meals aren’t covered by the airline

  
  

Insurance may reimburse:

• Hotel stays

• Meals

• New flight costs

• Lost prepaid expenses

  
  

This is why insurance is always recommended—especially for long-haul or multi-city trips.

7. Use Your Travel Advisor (This Is Huge)

If you booked with a travel advisor, contact them immediately.

Travel advisors can:

• Access airline systems faster

• Find alternate routings you may not see online

• Advocate on your behalf

• Manage changes while you focus on getting where you need to be

  
  

This support can make a stressful situation far more manageable.

8. What Not to Do

• Don’t accept a refund if you still want to travel (it cancels your ticket)

• Don’t leave the airport without knowing your rebooking plan

• Don’t ignore compensation rights—follow up if necessary

  
  

9. How to Reduce Risk Next Time

While cancellations can’t always be avoided, you can reduce disruption by:

• Booking early-morning flights

• Avoiding tight connections

• Choosing nonstop routes when possible

• Booking with a travel advisor

• Always adding travel insurance

  
  

Final Thoughts

Flight cancellations are frustrating—but being informed puts you back in control. Knowing your rights as a Canadian traveller, acting quickly, and having expert support can turn a disruption into a manageable delay.

If you’d like help planning future travel with peace of mind—or want to ensure you’re protected before you go—Look no further than Quintesenses Luxury Travel! We are here to help. From booking flights and hotels to arranging tours and activities, we will handle all the details so you can simply relax and enjoy your trip, and if things go wrong, we're there to support you 24/7. Contact us today to start planning your next adventure!