What Do I Do If My Southwest Airlines Flight Was Cancelled?

Introduction

Did you receive a flight cancellation email or text from Southwest Airlines? When a flight is canceled, you’re typically automatically rebooked on the next available flight. If the new schedule works for you, no further action is required. If you have a connecting flight with another airline and the cancellation affects that portion of your trip, contact the partner carrier for assistance. If your departure is less than 48 hours away, consider reaching out directly to Southwest. Southwest may also offer additional rebooking or refund options when a flight is canceled. Continue reading to review your available flight options.

Rebook Your Flight

If the new flight schedule doesn't work for you, consider rebooking your flight through Southwest's Lookup Reservation page. Enter your confirmation number along with your first and last name, then click Lookup Reservation.

From there, you’ll have the option to change your flight. Select your preferred date and time, and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the rebooking process. There is typically no additional cost to rebook a flight that was canceled by Southwest Airlines.

Cancel Your Flight and Receive a Flight Credit

Depending on the fare type, you may be able to get a Transferable Flight Credit or a flight credit from Southwest when a flight is cancelled. You can use this to purchase a new flight, and the Transferable Flight Credit can be transferred to another Rapid Rewards member. For flight credits, make sure to use them before the expiry date. Also, you must cancel your reservation, or you're considered a no-show. Flight credits are usually valid for five years.

So if the new schedule doesn't work, feel free to cancel your flight and receive flight credits. To cancel your flight, use this form. Enter your confirmation # (you can find this in the confirmation email), first name, and last name, and click Continue. Then, follow the cancellation process on the next page.

Cancel Your Flight for a Refund

You can also cancel your flight and receive a full refund to the original payment method. However, you need to cancel the flight before departure or you're considered a no show. Customers must cancel their flights at least 10 minutes before the departure.

Note that if your flight is delayed by at least three hours (domestic flights) and at least six hours (international flights), you're also eligible to receive a refund. The process it the same: make sure to cancel 10 minutes before departure to be eligible for the refund. If you're a no show, Southwest Airlines may forfeit the value of your ticket.

Priority Boarding and Extra Legroom seat can also be refunded.

For those who booked via a third party or travel agency, use the confirmation number provided to you. Then, use the Southwest Airlines website to rebook or cancel your flight.

Conclusion

Are you worried your flight may be cancelled due to the weather? Use Southwest Airlines' Check Flight Status to check on your flight. If it's cancelled, check whether Southwest has rebooked you on another flight. If it doesn't work or it's not possible to rebook on a specific time or date, opt for a refund. To check the flight status, go to https://www.southwest.com/air/flight-status/ and enter your flight number. If you're still having issues with rebooking a flight, contact Southwest Airlines Customer Support. If you're already at the airport, just approach a Southwest staff member for further assistance.