Smartwings refund for cancellation.
Are you eligible for it? If so, what are the rules?
The regulations for flight cancellations are specified in European Regulation (EC) No 261/2004. This rule clearly outlines the obligations of airlines and the entitlements of passengers. It provides a detailed explanation of the procedures that European airlines must adhere to in the event of a flight cancellation, while also outlining your rights in such circumstances. If your flight is cancelled, you may be entitled to a refund, compensation or even both.
Smartwings Refund For Cancellation
Are you entitled to Smartwings refund for cancellation?
When are you entitled to flight cancellation compensation?
There are two primary scenarios. It depends on when your flight was cancelled. So let’s start with an important question: When was your flight cancelled?
Scenario 1: Flight Is Cancelled Less Than 2 Weeks Before the Trip
You can get: Refund or a new flight + compensation (if it’s due to the fault of Smartwings).
This is treated as a last-minute flight cancellation.
If your Smartwings flight gets cancelled 0-14 days before your journey, you have two options: a full refund or a new flight to your destination. You can choose the option that suits you best. Additionally, if the cancellation was a mistake on Smartwings’ part, you may be eligible for flight cancellation compensation.
Both the refund and compensation will be transferred to your bank account.
You don’t have to accept Smartwings vouchers as compensation/refund.
Check your compensation online!
Read more:
- Smartwings Flight Cancellation Compensation
- Your Smartwings Compensation Claim Is Denied. Now What?
- Your Smartwings Refund Is Taking Forever. Here’s What You Can Do
Scenario 2: Flight Is Cancelled More Than 2 Weeks Before the Trip
You can get: Refund or alternative flight to your final destination.
If your journey is cancelled more than 14 days in advance of your departure date, you are not eligible for compensation. However, you are still entitled to receive a refund instead of the original flight. Smartwings must provide you with the option to choose either a new flight or a refund, and it’s your right to select the one that best fits your needs.
Smartwings refund for cancellation should be processed within 7 days.
What If You Miss a Connecting Flight Due to Cancellation?
What happens if your connecting flight is missed due to a cancellation?
In the event of a Smartwings flight cancellation and if you have another flight to catch, the responsibility of reaching your subsequent flight lies with you. Given the self-transfer nature of this situation, the airline is not liable for any missed connections.
It’s essential to emphasize that Smartwings does not sell protected connecting flights. Consequently, you will need to handle the repercussions and arrange for an alternative flight independently.
For additional information, please refer to our guide on Smartwings missed connection compensation.
Smartwings Cancelled Flight Refund: FAQ
If My Flight Is Cancelled, Do I Get a Refund?
Yes, if your Smartwings flight is cancelled, you can get a Smartwings refund for cancellation.
You have the choice to get a refund instead of rebooking. But you can’t have both.
If Smartwings cancels your flight less than 14 days before the trip and it’s their fault, you might be eligible for both a refund (or a new flight) and Smartwings flight cancellation compensation.
Smartwings Voucher Refund or Cash, Can I Get Money?
What if Smartwings is offering you a voucher instead of compensation?
If Smartwings offers a voucher instead of cash compensation, you have the right to decline and request cash. It’s important to know that European Union regulations (Regulation (EC) No 261/2004) require airlines to offer compensation and refunds in cash or through bank transfer.
Already received a voucher?
Ask Smartwings to exchange the travel voucher for cash.
What If Smartwings Is Refusing Refund For Cancellation?
If Smartwings is denying your refund, don’t despair.
You can request a refund as per Regulation (EC) No 261/2004, Articles 5 and 8. These articles mandate airlines to refund passengers under specific conditions. You have the right to claim your refund. If Smartwings continues to be uncooperative, you can reach out to the national enforcement body in the country where your flight was due to depart for further assistance.
Can You Get Both Compensation and Refund?
Yes, there are scenarios where you can get both.
If Smartwings cancels your flight within 14 days of departure due to their error, you have the right to receive a full refund and compensation from Smartwings. It is important to note that the compensation and refund should be directly credited to your bank account and not provided in the form of vouchers.
If you already have a voucher or coupon from Smartwings, you can ask for a cash refund by getting in touch with Smartwings.
What Happens If I Cancel a Flight, Not the Airline?
If you cancel the flight instead of Smartwings, the refund policy and entitlements may differ.
It typically depends on the type of ticket you bought. While some fares are fully refundable, others may have significant cancellation fees or be completely non-refundable. It is important to review the terms and conditions when booking to understand your cancellation rights.
How Much Time Does It Take to Process a Refund?
As per European Union regulations, airlines should process the refund within seven days.
If you haven’t received your refund within 7 days, we advise you to reach out to Smartwings customer service. While it could be a delay in the bank transfer, if the delay persists beyond a reasonable timeframe, you should contemplate seeking additional assistance or exploring legal options.
Read more: Your Smartwings Refund Is Taking Forever. Here’s What You Can Do
What Are My Rights if My Flight Is Cancelled?
In the event of a flight cancellation, you have the right to either receive a full refund or be provided with an alternative flight.
If your flight is canceled within 0-14 days before the departure date due to the airline’s fault, you are eligible for compensation for flight cancellation. The compensation amount is determined by the distance of your flight and the duration of the delay.
Additionally, if your flight is cancelled at the very last minute, you have a right to care, which includes meals and refreshments, two complimentary communication attempts through calls, emails, or faxes. If the delay extends overnight, the airline must also provide hotel accommodation and transportation between the airport and the hotel.
By Europe and EU here on this page (and on this website in general) we mean all EU Member States, the United Kingdom (UK), Guadeloupe, French Guiana, Martinique, Reunion, Mayotte, Saint Martin (French Antilles), the Azores, Madeira, the Canary Islands, Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland.
What is your experience with Smartwings flight cancellations? Have you ever received a refund from Smartwings because they cancelled a flight?