How long does a flight refund take?

Approved refunds go back to your original payment method. Airlines typically process card refunds within about 7 business days, but your bank can take another 1–2 billing cycles to show the money, so 2–4 weeks end to end is normal. You can track a refund request from your booking at /account.

The two-stage timeline

Stage one is the airline processing and approving the refund under its fare rules — commonly within about 7 business days for card payments. Stage two is your bank posting the credit to your account, which can add days or, on some cards, stretch into the next billing cycle. Neither stage is visible to the other, which is why "the airline says it's done" and "my statement shows nothing yet" are often both true.

Where the money goes

• Always to the original payment method — a refund can't be redirected to a different card or account.
• In the amount and currency originally charged; if your card was converted from another currency, small exchange-rate differences on the way back are your bank's conversion, not a deduction.

Travel credit is faster

Where an airline offers a travel credit instead of cash, it usually appears much sooner. Weigh that speed against the expiry date and being tied to one airline before choosing it over a cash refund.

When to chase

Past the 2–4 week window with nothing showing? Open a ticket at support with your booking reference and we'll chase the airline with you. More flight answers live in flights help.