Flight Cancellation and Delay Compensation: Know Your Rights

When it comes to air travel, flight cancellations and delays can be a frustrating and stressful experience for passengers. However, many travellers are unaware of their rights and the compensation they may be entitled to. According to EU law, passengers can claim compensation for flights that are cancelled or delayed by more than three hours. The law applies to all flights departing from an EU airport, regardless of the airline’s country of origin. To be eligible for compensation, passengers must have checked in for their flight on time and have a valid booking confirmation. The amount of compensation varies depending on the distance of the flight and the length of the delay. For flights of less than 1,500km, passengers can claim up to £220 in compensation. For flights between 1,500km and 3,500km, the compensation amount is up to £350. And for flights of more than 3,500km, passengers can claim up to £520 in compensation. It’s worth noting that compensation is only payable if the cancellation or delay is the fault of the airline. If the disruption is caused by extraordinary circumstances such as bad weather or air traffic control issues, passengers may not be entitled to compensation. Passengers can claim compensation by contacting the airline directly or by using a claims management company. It’s recommended that passengers keep all documentation related to their flight, including boarding passes and booking confirmations, as this will be required to support their claim. In addition to compensation, passengers may also be entitled to other forms of assistance such as food and drink vouchers or accommodation. The airline is responsible for providing care and assistance to passengers who are delayed or have had their flight cancelled. This includes providing meals, refreshments, and accommodation, as well as facilitating communication with family and friends. Passengers who are delayed or have had their flight cancelled should contact the airline as soon as possible to request assistance. The airline should also provide passengers with a written notice explaining their rights and the compensation they may be entitled to. In some cases, passengers may be able to claim additional compensation for expenses such as car parking or hotel accommodation. It’s always a good idea for passengers to check their travel insurance policy to see if they have any additional cover for flight disruptions. The UK’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is responsible for enforcing the rules on flight compensation and provides guidance to passengers on their rights. Passengers can contact the CAA for advice and assistance if they are having trouble claiming compensation from an airline. The CAA also provides a complaints procedure for passengers who are unhappy with the service they have received from an airline. In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of passengers claiming compensation for flight disruptions. This is likely due to increased awareness of passenger rights and the ease of making a claim. However, some airlines have been criticized for making it difficult for passengers to claim compensation, with some requiring passengers to fill out complex forms or providing inadequate information about their rights. Despite these challenges, passengers should not be deterred from claiming the compensation they are entitled to. By understanding their rights and the process for making a claim, passengers can ensure they receive the compensation they deserve. It’s also worth noting that some airlines are now providing automated compensation systems, making it easier for passengers to claim compensation. These systems allow passengers to enter their flight details and receive an instant decision on their eligibility for compensation. Overall, claiming compensation for flight cancellations and delays can be a complex process, but by being aware of their rights and the rules that apply, passengers can ensure they receive the compensation they are entitled to.

Source