Can I file a credit card chargeback against an airline?

Yes, but it should be your last resort. Credit card chargebacks (disputes) are a legitimate consumer protection tool when an airline has failed to provide the service you paid for — typically a cancelled flight with no rebooking or refund offered. Under the Fair Credit Billing Act, you have 60 days from the statement date to dispute a charge.

Before filing a chargeback: exhaust the airline's own refund process first. Under DOT rules effective in 2026, airlines must automatically refund you to your original payment method within 7 business days (credit card) or 20 days (other payment methods) for cancelled flights and significant schedule changes. Give them that window. Also file a DOT complaint at airconsumerprotection.dot.gov — this creates an official record and often accelerates the airline's response.

If you do file a chargeback: your credit card company will ask for documentation. Provide your booking confirmation, proof of cancellation/non-service, records of your attempts to get a refund from the airline, and any correspondence. Be aware: airlines may ban you from future bookings if you file a chargeback, and some chargebacks are reversed if the airline provides counter-documentation. It's a powerful tool but use it judiciously — direct refund requests and DOT complaints usually work faster and without the adversarial relationship.