Voucher and flight credits: how they work and when you can convert them into a refund
In recent years, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic, many travelers were forced to cancel flights they had already booked. In those cases, airlines often offered vouchers or flight credits instead of a cash refund. At first, this seemed like a useful solution: a way not to lose the money entirely and to rebook later. Over time, however, not everyone actually used these vouchers, raising questions such as: how long do they last? Can they be converted into cash? Am I forced to accept them?
Today, the issue is still highly relevant, not only for those who received post-Covid vouchers, but also for passengers facing flight cancellations due to strikes, operational problems, or unexpected events. Airlines often push travelers toward flight credits, but they don’t always clarify that passengers are entitled to a refund. Knowing the rules is essential to avoid ending up with an unusable or expired voucher.
This guide explains how flight vouchers work, what the rules for using them are, in which cases you can demand a refund, and how to protect yourself if the airline does not comply.
How vouchers and flight credits work
A voucher or flight credit is an electronic coupon issued by the airline after a cancellation or change. The ticket price you paid is “frozen” and made available as credit for future bookings with the same airline.
Post-Covid vouchers: what has changed
During the pandemic, many airlines issued vouchers instead of refunds, often without giving passengers any choice. Today, the situation is different: if the airline cancels your flight, you always have the right to a cash refund, and a voucher must be optional.
Can a voucher be converted into a refund?
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If you cancel your trip for personal reasons, the airline may offer you a voucher but isn’t obliged to refund you.
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If the airline cancels the flight, you can always choose between a refund and a voucher.
What EU law says
Under EU Regulation 261/2004, passengers are entitled to a refund within 7 days if a flight is canceled by the airline. Vouchers can only be issued with the passenger’s voluntary consent.
Getting assistance and enforcing your rights
Airlines are not always transparent. Many passengers accept vouchers without realizing they had the right to request money back. In these cases, platforms like DelayFlight24 can help: you can check if you’re entitled to a refund or compensation and start the process with no upfront costs.
Check if you are entitled to compensation
Conclusion
Flight vouchers can be handy if you plan to fly again soon with the same airline, but they can also become a problem if left unused. Remember: if your flight is canceled by the airline, you always have the right to a refund. When in doubt, rely on experts like DelayFlight24 to ensure your rights are protected.
