EU261 Refund vs Re-routing: Which to Choose After Cancellation

What is EU261 Article 8?

EU261 Article 8 defines your 'right to reimbursement or re-routing' when a flight is cancelled or you are denied boarding. You have three options: (1) Full ticket refund within 7 days for the parts of the journey not taken, plus a return flight to the original departure point if you are already mid-journey. (2) Re-routing to your final destination at the earliest opportunity, under comparable transport conditions. (3) Re-routing to your final destination at a later date at your convenience, subject to seat availability. These rights exist alongside (not instead of) your EU261 monetary compensation.

Can I claim both a refund AND EU261 compensation?

Yes. The right to a refund (Article 8) and monetary compensation (Article 7 — €250/€400/€600) are separate and cumulative. If your flight is cancelled with less than 14 days' notice and you choose a refund, you are STILL entitled to the full EU261 monetary compensation. The airline cannot reduce or withhold compensation because you chose a refund over re-routing. Choosing re-routing instead of a refund also does not waive your compensation rights.

The airline refund was delayed beyond 7 days — what can I do?

EU261 Article 8 requires refunds to be paid within 7 days, including cash, electronic bank transfer, bank orders, or (with your written consent) travel vouchers. If the airline exceeds 7 days, you can file a complaint with the national enforcement body in the departure country (AESA for Spain, LBA/SÖP for Germany, CAA for UK, etc.). Airlines that consistently delay refunds beyond 7 days face regulatory enforcement. Document the delay with screenshots of your refund request and any communications.

The airline offered re-routing on a partner airline — is this acceptable?

Yes. EU261 Article 8(1)(b) requires re-routing 'under comparable transport conditions' — this can be on the same airline, a codeshare, or an entirely different carrier. The airline must arrange this at no additional cost to you. If they offer you a significantly inferior alternative (much longer journey, additional stops, significant downgrade in class), you can decline and choose a refund or request a better alternative. Document any inferior offers in writing.

I was offered a voucher instead of a cash refund — must I accept?

No — unless you explicitly consent in writing. EU261 Article 8 refunds must be in cash (or electronic transfer/bank order) unless the passenger voluntarily and explicitly agrees to a travel voucher. Airlines frequently attempt to default refunds to vouchers — this is not permitted. You have the right to insist on cash refund, and if the airline refuses, escalate to the national enforcement body. This also applies to UK261 under the same principle.