Flight Delay Compensation: All You Need to Know

Flight delays can disrupt travel plans and cause significant inconvenience. However, understanding your rights and options for flight delay compensation can help with the frustration. 

Here's everything you need to know about compensations and navigating delays effectively.

What is Flight Delay Compensation?

Flight delay compensation refers to the monetary reimbursement or assistance passengers may receive when their flights are delayed beyond a specific period. Depending on the circumstances, passengers may be entitled to cash compensation between €250 - €600, refunds, or additional services.

When Are You Entitled to Compensation?

Under EU Regulation 261/2004, passengers are eligible for monetary compensation if:

• The flight is delayed by three hours or more at the final destination.
• The delay is caused by factors within the airline’s control, such as technical issues or staff unavailability.
• The flight departs from an EU airport or arrives in the EU on an EU-based carrier.

Compensation amounts vary based on the flight distance:

• €250: Flights up to 1,500 km.
• €400: Flights between 1,500 and 3,500 km.
• €600: Flights over 3,500 km.

You may not be entitled to compensation if the reason for the delay was due to extraordinary circumstances, which are beyond the airline’s control. This includes air traffic control strikes, severe weather conditions, and security threats.

Steps to Claim Flight Delay Compensation

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Determine whether your flight meets the criteria for compensation based on local regulations. Note the length of the delay, the reason provided by the airline, and your departure and arrival points.

Step 2: Gather Documentation

Keep all relevant documents, such as your updated boarding information, flight tickets, receipts for additional expenses incurred, and any written communication from the airline regarding the delay.

Step 3: Claim Compensation

To claim compensation under EC261 law, get an attorney or a service like Flightright to save you the time and effort required. You can also contact the airline through their communication channels for more details on what you’re entitled to. While filing a claim, include all documentation and an explanation of the situation, and also state your rights under the law.

What Assistance Can Airlines Provide During Delays?

In addition to financial compensation, airlines may be required to offer:

• Meals and Refreshments: For delays lasting two hours or more.
• Accommodation: For an overnight stay if the delay requires you to sleep over.
• Transportation: Movement between the airport and accommodation.
• Communication Access: Such as free phone calls, emails, and internet access

How to Avoid Flight Delays

While not all delays are preventable, the following tips can reduce your risk:

1. Choose Morning Flights: Early flights are less likely to be delayed, as there are no previous flight disruptions that may affect your flight.
2. Check Weather Conditions: Bad weather conditions are one of the major reasons flights get delayed, and you want to avoid flying during such seasons.
3. Opt for Nonstop Flights: Connecting flights increases the likelihood of delays.
4. Monitor Your Flight: Sign up for real-time updates from the airline via email or text or use flight tracking apps.

Bottom Line

If you’re a frequent traveller, you’ve probably experienced flight delays at some point. But what do you do in such a situation? This article addresses that, so you can have a great journey regardless, knowing you will be duly compensated.