Ryanair Cancellation Policy (2026)

Ryanair does not offer a 24-hour free cancellation grace period. All bookings are generally non-refundable from the moment of purchase.

Have a question about Ryanair cancellation policy?

Talk to an Expert

Page updated: August 2026

24-Hour Rule

Limited 24-hour cancellation. Ryanair does not offer a 24-hour free cancellation grace period. All bookings are generally non-refundable from the moment of purchase.

Cancellation Fees

Fare ClassFee
Basic EconomyNon-refundable. Government taxes may be refunded subject to an administration fee.
Main CabinNon-refundable.
PremiumNon-refundable.
BusinessNon-refundable.

Change Fees

Fare ClassFee
Basic Economy€45 - €60 per passenger, per one-way flight, plus any fare difference.
Main CabinFlight changes permitted without a change fee on the day of travel or up to 1 day before/after, subject to availability.
PremiumUnlimited free flight changes on the day of travel or up to 1 day before/after, subject to availability.
BusinessStandard change fees apply.

Refund Method

Original form of payment for exceptional circumstances (e.g., bereavement or serious illness) or flight cancellations by the airline.

Same-Day Change

Allowed for Flexi Plus passengers for free. Others must pay the standard change fee plus fare difference.

No-Show Policy

If you do not show up for your flight, your ticket is forfeited and no refund will be issued.

If Ryanair Cancels Your Flight

When an airline cancels or significantly changes your flight, U.S. Department of Transportation regulations require the airline to provide a full refund to the original form of payment — including ticket price, taxes, fees, and any paid extras — regardless of fare type.

Under DOT rules, a "significant change" includes: arrival delayed 3+ hours (domestic) or 6+ hours (international), a change in departure or arrival airport, additional connections, or an involuntary downgrade to a lower class of service.

The refund must be issued automatically within 7 business days for credit card purchases or 20 calendar days for other payment methods. Airlines may offer travel credits or vouchers as an alternative, but must inform you of your right to a cash refund. You are not required to accept a voucher.

Source: U.S. Department of Transportation, Aviation Consumer Protection — Refunds (transportation.gov/individuals/aviation-consumer-protection/refunds, last updated November 7, 2025).

How to Cancel

  1. Log in to your myRyanair account on the website or app.
  2. Go to 'My Bookings' and select the trip you wish to manage.
  3. Select 'Manage Booking' to view options for changing flights.
  4. Note that direct cancellation for a refund is not available online; you simply do not travel, or apply for a tax refund via a specific form.

Tips

  • Only book Ryanair if you are certain of your travel dates, as changes are expensive.
  • If you need flexibility, consider purchasing the Flexi Plus fare.
  • Name changes are possible but cost €115 online, so double-check spelling during booking.
  • If Ryanair cancels your flight, you are entitled to a full refund or re-routing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ryanair cancellation policy?
Ryanair does not offer a 24-hour free cancellation window. All cancellations are subject to fare-class-based fees from the moment of booking. Refund method: Original form of payment for exceptional circumstances (e.g., bereavement or serious illness) or flight cancellations by the airline.
Can I cancel a Ryanair flight for free?
No — Ryanair does not provide a free cancellation period. Ryanair does not offer a 24-hour free cancellation grace period. All bookings are generally non-refundable from the moment of purchase.
What is Ryanair cancellation fee?
Fees vary by fare class. Basic Economy: Non-refundable. Government taxes may be refunded subject to an administration fee.. Main Cabin: Non-refundable.. Premium: Non-refundable..
What is Ryanair's change fee?
Main Cabin: Flight changes permitted without a change fee on the day of travel or up to 1 day before/after, subject to availability.. Basic Economy: €45 - €60 per passenger, per one-way flight, plus any fare difference..
How do I get a refund from Ryanair?
Original form of payment for exceptional circumstances (e.g., bereavement or serious illness) or flight cancellations by the airline.
What happens if I no-show on Ryanair?
If you do not show up for your flight, your ticket is forfeited and no refund will be issued.