Getting a refund for canceled airline tickets can be tricky, but if you keep in mind several key points, you might have a better chance of replenishing your personal coffers with a refund from the airline.
If, after booking an airline ticket, you find you need to cancel your reservation, first check to see what kind of ticket your purchased. Many airlines' "best fares" are so-called "non-refundable" tickets, which can be tricky to have refunded. On the other hand, if you purchased a more expensive ticket, you might be able to get a refund with no trouble at all. (Hint: Check the letter that corresponds with your fare: Usually, this is listed as a "V" fare, for instance. Then compare that letter with the fare scale on an airline's Web site. The site will list which letters are eligible for automatic refunds, and which are not.)
If the airline canceled your flight, you're eligible for an automatic refund. For instance, if bad weather forced the airline to remove your flight from its schedule, simply ask the airline for a refund, no matter what kind of fare you purchased. It's as easy as that.
Even if you purchased a non-refundable ticket, all hope is not lost: If you're sick, and have a doctor's note, some airlines will consider refunding your fare. Also, if an airline's flight schedule is simply no longer convenient, another option is to use your current ticket and attempt to fly "standby" on another flight. Approach an airline ticket desk and ask to fly standby, for no charge, on another flight. You're not guaranteed a seat, but sometimes this gamble can pay off.
It's not as good as a flat-out refund, but if all else fails, you can always cancel your ticket and get a voucher for future travel. You'll likely have to pay a penalty--oftentimes around $100--but if you have a high-dollar ticket, this can be worth it.
Even if you have a ticket marked "non-refundable," remember there's always wiggle room, especially if you talk to someone in person, or via e-mail. Simply call an airline's customer service number, explain your situation, and ask for options. If you get lucky enough to score a friendly, helpful agent, you can sometimes get around ultra-strict policies. And if the first person you talk to doesn't help, it never hurts to try a second.
