Air travel doesn’t always go as planned. Whether it’s a flight delay or being denied boarding, these disruptions can affect your schedule and are never a pleasant experience. However, if you are faced with such disruptions, you may be entitled to compensation, especially if the airline is at fault. Here’s what you need to know about your rights, including how to claim compensation for a flight delay or denied boarding.
Know What Causes Flight Delays and Denied Boarding
1. Flight Delays
Flight delays occur when a flight departs later than its scheduled time. Causes include:
- Weather Conditions: Poor visibility or storms can delay departures.
- Technical Issues: Aircraft maintenance or mechanical problems.
- Operational Problems: Overbooked schedules or crew shortages.
2. Denied Boarding
Denied boarding usually results from overbooking, where airlines sell more tickets than available seats. It can also be due to operational reasons, like aircraft changes or weight restrictions, which isn’t the airline’s fault.
What Are Your Rights if Your Flight is delayed?
You may be entitled to flight delay compensation under the EU Regulation 261/2004 (EU261), but only if:
- The delay exceeds 3 hours at the final destination.
- The flight departs from an EU airport or arrives in the EU on an EU-based carrier.
- The delay is within the airline’s control, such as operational issues, staff strikes, or technical problems.
Compensation amounts under EU261 are between €250 – €600 based on your flight distance, from short (€250), to medium (€400), and long (€600) distances.
Denied Boarding Compensation
Under EU261, passengers denied boarding against their will are entitled to:
- Compensation based on the same structure as flight delays (€250 – €600).
- Alternative travel arrangements or a refund for the unused ticket.
Your Additional Rights as a Passenger
In addition to compensation, you may be entitled to:
- Right to Care: Airlines must provide meals, refreshments, and accommodation during long delays or overnight stays.
- Alternative Travel Arrangements: Airlines must rebook you on the next available flight or provide a refund if you choose not to travel.
- Refunds for Unused Tickets: If the delay or boarding denial makes your trip impossible, you’re entitled to a refund.
Tips for Managing Flight Delays and Denied Boarding
- Stay Informed: Check flight status updates regularly and keep an eye on airline notifications, so you can make quick decisions.
- Arrive Early: Being on time reduces the risk of complications like overbooking. It also increases your chances of compensation, as you can claim that you checked in early.
- Keep Records: Save all receipts and documents related to your flight and additional expenses caused by delays.
Bottom Line
Whether it’s a flight delay or denied boarding, air passenger rights exist to ensure you’re treated fairly and compensated for disruptions. Services like Skycop makes this easier, allowing travellers to claim compensation and recover costs when airlines are at fault. It is, however, important to stay informed and act promptly based on the information you now have access to.
