Flight Cancelled or Delayed in 2024? Know Your Compensation Rights in the EU

Key Points:

1. Passengers have rights if their flight is cancelled, delayed, or if they face other flight-related issues.
2. Financial compensation is due for all passengers with cancelled flights.
3. Passengers with flights delayed by three or more hours are also entitled to financial compensation.

Experiencing a flight delay or cancellation can significantly disrupt your travel plans. While for some, it may only mean a few lost hours, for others, it could result in missing important events. Understanding your rights as a passenger, particularly regarding compensation, is crucial.

The EU Regulation 261/2004 sets out rules ensuring that passengers receive appropriate care and compensation in cases of flight cancellations or delays. The regulation clearly defines the compensation amounts and eligibility criteria.

Who is Eligible for Compensation?

Under EU Regulation 261/2004, compensation rights apply to:

- Passengers on flights within the EU, operated by EU or non-EU airlines.
- Passengers flying to the EU from outside the EU, on an EU airline.
- Passengers departing from the EU to non-EU countries, on EU or non-EU airlines.

Compensation for Cancelled Flights

Passengers with cancelled flights can receive compensation between €250 and €600, depending on the flight distance:

- Reimbursement, re-routing, or return are options provided to passengers.
- If a flight is cancelled less than 14 days before departure, compensation is due.
- Compensation may be reduced by 50% if re-routing results in a delay of less than four hours to the final destination.

When Compensation is Not Due for Cancelled Flights

Passengers are not entitled to compensation if:

- They were informed of the cancellation more than 14 days in advance.
- They were informed less than seven days before and offered re-routing that allows arrival within two hours of the scheduled time.
- The cancellation was due to extraordinary circumstances like severe weather or political instability.

Compensation for Delayed Flights

Passengers are entitled to compensation of €250 to €600 for delays of three or more hours, depending on the flight distance. This applies if:

- The delay causes a missed connecting flight within the EU, resulting in a delay of three or more hours to the final destination.
- The delay was not caused by extraordinary circumstances.

Right to Free Assistance for Delayed Flights

Passengers have the right to:

- Free meals and refreshments corresponding to the delay duration.
- Two free phone calls.
- Free hotel accommodation and transport if the delay extends overnight.
- Reimbursement for meals and refreshments if not provided by the airline, with receipts kept for proof.

Tips for Delayed Flights

- Ask airline staff about the reason for the delay and track the delay duration.
- Request free food and drinks during the wait.
- Note the departure and arrival times to determine eligibility for compensation.

Claiming Compensation

To claim compensation:

1. Complain to the airline by filling out a claim form.
2. If unsatisfied with the airline's response, complain to the National Enforcement Body in the affected EU country.
3. EU nationals can use the Alternative Dispute Resolution Entity or Online Dispute Resolution platform.
4. If necessary, take the matter to court using the European Small Claims procedure.

FAQs

- When should I submit my compensation claim?
  As soon as possible, ideally on the same day.
- Can my compensation claim be turned down?
  Yes, if the delay or cancellation is due to extraordinary circumstances.
- Do I have rights if my flight from Australia to Germany is delayed or cancelled?
  Yes, if operated by an EU airline.
- Do I have rights if I miss my flight due to heavy traffic?
  No, you must be on time for check-in.
- Am I entitled to compensation if my flight arrives less than three hours late?
  No, compensation is for delays of three or more hours.
- Is there a time limit for receiving compensation?
  No, EU rules do not set a deadline for compensation payments.
- Do I have rights if my flight is brought forward by more than one hour?
  Yes, this is considered a cancellation, entitling you to compensation.

By understanding and asserting your rights, you can ensure a smoother resolution to any flight-related disruptions.