Ryanair Refund Policy 2026: Europe's Largest Airline & EU261
Updated: January 10, 2026 | By Patrick O'Brien, EU261 Expert
Quick Summary
Ryanair (Europe's largest airline) has Flexi Plus fares that are refundable. Dublin/London bases. EU261 applies to ALL flights! Call 1-844-656-7300.
?? Warning: Ryanair has strict policies. Most fares are non-refundable. BUT EU261 gives you rights!
1. Ryanair Fare Types
| Fare | Changes | Refundable? |
|---|---|---|
| Value | �40+ | ? Non-refundable |
| Regular | �65+ | ? Non-refundable |
| Plus | �45 | Credit only |
| Flexi Plus | Free | ? Cash |
2. EU261 Compensation
Ryanair cancels or delays 3+ hours: �250-�400 compensation PLUS refund. This applies regardless of fare type!
Your Legal Rights Under DOT Regulations
Under DOT regulations, you have federal rights that airlines cannot override:
? Your Guaranteed Rights:
- 24-hour full refund: Cancel any ticket within 24 hours if booked 7+ days before departure
- Cash refund when airline cancels: Never have to accept vouchers for airline-caused cancellations
- Refund timeline: 7 business days (credit card) or 20 days (other payment methods)
- Tarmac delay protections: Must deplane after 3 hours (domestic) or 4 hours (international)
- Denied boarding compensation: $775-
3. FAQs
,550 for involuntary bumping
If denied your rights, file a complaint at airconsumer.dot.gov.
Baggage Fee Refunds
Paid for checked bags but your flight was cancelled or delayed?
- Flight cancelled by airline: Full refund of ALL baggage fees
- Bag delayed 24+ hours: Eligible for essential items reimbursement
- Bag lost permanently: Up to $3,800 liability (domestic)
Important: File claims immediately and keep all receipts.
3. FAQs
Does Ryanair offer refunds?
Most fares: Non-refundable. Flexi Plus: Cash. Ryanair cancels = cash + EU261!
What is EU261?
EU law giving passengers �250-�600 for cancellations/delays on EU flights, REGARDLESS of fare.
Where does Ryanair fly?
Dublin/London serve 225+ destinations across Europe, Morocco, Israel, and Jordan.
What is Ryanair's refund policy for cancelled flights?
When Ryanair cancels your flight, you're entitled to a full refund to your original payment method - not just a voucher. If the airline offers only credit, you can insist on cash back. For schedule changes over 2 hours, refund rights typically apply. Call 1-844-656-7300 for help enforcing your refund.
Does Ryanair charge change fees?
Change fee policies vary by fare class and route. Many Ryanair fares now allow free changes (you pay only fare difference), while basic/light fares may still have restrictions. The 24-hour DOT cancellation rule applies to all US departures. Contact us at 1-844-656-7300 for your specific ticket.
How do I contact Ryanair customer service?
Skip the long hold times. Our travel specialists at 1-844-656-7300 have direct access to Ryanair reservation systems and can resolve issues faster than the general customer service line. We're available 24/7 for urgent travel situations.