Extreme weather can lead to train suspensions and flight cancellations. Are passengers required to request a ticket refund on the day of the suspension? What should they do if one leg of a connecting journey is disrupted?
Railway Tickets:
Under relevant rules, if a train service is suspended due to weather conditions, the 12306 China Railway website will automatically process ticket refunds within five days of the original travel date, with no refund fee charged.
Passengers may also complete refund procedures via two other channels. The applications can be made at the service counters in any railway station nationwide from the time the train suspension notice is issued until 30 days after the scheduled travel date (including that date). The valid identity document used to purchase the ticket must be presented. Alternatively, applications can be made online via the Railway 12306 app by selecting the relevant journeys under either "My Tickets" (本人车票) or "Paid Orders" (已支付订单) in the "Orders" (订单) section. Both options are free of charge.
Special attention should be paid to connecting tickets. If one leg of a connecting journey is suspended due to weather conditions, the ticketing system will automatically issue a refund for the affected segment only; other unaffected tickets are not covered. To request a full refund of all legs before departure, the tickets must meet China Railway's official criteria for a connecting ticket.
Flight Tickets:
When flights are canceled or delayed due to extreme weather conditions, airlines will promptly release special arrangements for the affected routes.
Some airlines allow eligible tickets (including discounted ones) to be refunded or changed once free of charge. Any fare difference resulting from a change will be charged in accordance with the applicable rules. When submitting requests, passengers should select the "Involuntary Refund and Change" (非自愿退改) option rather than requesting a voluntary one, to avoid service fees.
Reminder: Under relevant rules, airlines may assist passengers in arranging accommodation and meals when flights are canceled or delayed due to extreme weather. However, passengers generally have to cover the costs themselves, and airlines do not provide financial compensation. Travelers who have purchased flight delay insurance may file a claim with their insurer with proof of the flight disruption. Coverage is subject to the terms and conditions of their insurance policies.
(Source: CCTV News App)
