On 23 April 2026, cancelled.ch had the opportunity to answer users’ questions on SRF in a Q&A about flights, holidays and the current uncertainty surrounding a possible kerosene shortage. The focus was mainly on concerns about flight cancellations, rising ticket prices and passengers’ rights if flights are cancelled or rescheduled.

A key topic was whether airlines may increase the price of already paid tickets retroactively. Our view is clear: as a rule, a retroactive price increase is not permitted. The flight price is an essential part of the transport contract and becomes binding upon booking. Rising kerosene prices generally fall within the airline’s business risk. An exception would only be conceivable if such a price adjustment had been expressly and transparently provided for in the contractual terms.

Another frequent question was what happens if a flight is cancelled due to the current situation. In such cases, passengers generally have the choice between a full refund of the ticket price or free re-routing to their destination. If the cancellation takes place at short notice, meaning less than 14 days before departure, an additional claim for compensation may also arise. Whether such a claim actually exists always depends on the specific reason for the cancellation.

Many travellers also wanted to know whether they should still book summer holidays or proactively cancel existing trips. There is no general answer to this. Anyone who cancels on their own initiative risks receiving only taxes and fees back, depending on the ticket conditions. It is therefore often more sensible to monitor developments and not cancel prematurely. For new bookings, we recommend choosing hotels and additional services that are as flexible as possible, so that flight schedule changes do not lead to unnecessary extra costs.

Our conclusion from the SRF Q&A: there is a certain degree of uncertainty for summer 2026, but there is no reason to panic. Even if individual flights may be cancelled, consolidated or adjusted, passengers have clear rights. It is important to keep an eye on your booking, carefully review airline notifications and, in the event of a cancellation, not accept a solution too quickly without knowing your rights.