Airport taxes: what they are, when they are refundable, and how to claim them
Many passengers don’t know this, but airport taxes are refundable even when the flight ticket itself is not. In some cases, especially in situations of no-show or voluntary cancellation, it’s possible to recover part of the amount paid without needing complex justifications. In summer 2025, with the increase in flights booked and then canceled at the last minute, knowing this right can make a big difference.
What are airport taxes?
When you purchase a flight ticket, the total price includes several components:
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Base fare of the flight
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Fuel or management surcharges
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Airport taxes
Airport taxes are fees that airlines pay to airports and governments for each passenger who actually boards. This means that if you don’t fly, the airline doesn’t incur that cost and, therefore, must refund it.
When you are entitled to a refund
You are entitled to a refund of airport taxes if:
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You don’t board due to personal choice
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You miss your flight
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You cancel your booking (even if the ticket is non-refundable)
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The airline cancels the flight and you refuse alternatives
In all these cases, even with a low-cost ticket, you can request a refund of unused taxes. These amounts often range from €15 to €50 per leg, depending on the airport and the airline.
How to request the refund
Each airline has its own procedure, but generally:
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Go to the airline’s website under “Refund Request”
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Fill in the form with your booking number and personal details
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Specify that the request concerns airport tax refunds
Some airlines withhold a small administrative fee (e.g., Ryanair charges around €20), but others, such as easyJet or Wizz Air, offer full refunds if the request is made within a reasonable timeframe. Refunds are usually processed within 30 days, credited to your card or associated account.
Warning: it’s not automatic
Airlines do not automatically refund airport taxes: the passenger must always submit a request. This means that if you don’t apply, you lose the right.
Many travelers give up, thinking the ticket is entirely “non-refundable,” but taxes are an exception. Even with the cheapest fares, partial refunds are often available.
Experienced disruption? You may be entitled to more
If you missed your flight due to a delay, cancellation, or overbooking, you may be entitled not only to the refund of taxes but also to compensation of up to €600 under European Regulation EC 261/2004.
In these cases, you can rely on DelayFlight24, which helps you to:
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Check for free if you’re entitled to compensation
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Claim reimbursement without upfront costs
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Receive fast, specialized legal support
Just provide your flight number and date to check in seconds.
Click here to claim your compensation
Conclusion: a little-known but useful right
Airport taxes represent an amount often overlooked but refundable even when the ticket is not. Acting promptly, submitting the request correctly, and knowing your rights allow you to recover money that would otherwise be lost.
And if the missed flight is due to disruption, you may also receive financial compensation. That’s why being informed is the first step toward smarter and more conscious travel.
