Flight cancelled this holiday season? You're entitled to a refund or other accommodation

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As the holiday season approaches, thousands of Americans are getting ready to fly. At least some of their flights will be canceled – it happens every year. If you're among those unlucky travelers, you're entitled to a refund if you choose not to travel. If you take alternative flights the airline offers, you could still be eligible for other compensation under commitments various airlines have made to the Department of Transportation.

Those commitments vary by airline, so it's important to familiarize yourself with your individual carrier's policies.

Here's what to know.

What is a controllable cancellation?

According to the DOT a controllable cancellation is one caused by the airline itself. Controllable reasons include maintenance or crew problems, cabin cleaning, baggage loading and fueling. Things like weather or air traffic control flow programs do not qualify as controllable delays.

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What am I entitled to if my flight is canceled?

If your flight is canceled for any reason, whether it's controllable by the airline or not, you are entitled to a refund if you choose not to travel. If you decide to stick it out, you may still be entitled to some compensation or accommodation, including rebooking on another flight or airline at no cost, meal and lodging vouchers for qualifying delays and other benefits.

No U.S. airlines currently offer cash compensation for delays, but the big four (American, Delta, Southwest and United) all offer hotel and ground transportation vouchers for overnight stays as a result of a flight cancellation.

The DOT has a dashboard that outlines all major U.S. airlines' policies.

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What to do if your flight is canceled

Your best bet is to know your airline's policies before your trip and be your own advocate if something does go wrong.

Get in touch with the airline however you can, whether it's through the app, through social media, by phone or at the airport help desk if you're already on your way. It's usually a good idea to have some alternative flights in mind when you speak to an agent, and be sure to ask for any accommodation or refunds you may be entitled to if you plan to take advantage of those policies.