Passenger Rights and Compensation Claims
If your flight is significantly delayed or cancelled, you are entitled to compensation under Regulation (EC) No 261/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council. This regulation applies to all flights departing from EU airports and flights arriving in the EU operated by EU carriers.
When are you entitled to compensation?
You may claim compensation if your flight arrives at your destination more than three hours late or if the flight was cancelled less than 14 days before departure. The compensation amount depends on the flight distance:
- Up to 1,500 km: 250 EUR.
- 1,500–3,500 km: 400 EUR.
- Over 3,500 km: 600 EUR.
It is important to note that the airline is exempt from paying compensation if the delay or cancellation was caused by extraordinary circumstances that could not have been avoided (e.g., extreme weather conditions or air traffic control strikes). Technical faults with the aircraft are generally not considered extraordinary circumstances.
How to claim compensation?
- Gather evidence: Keep your boarding passes, booking confirmations, and receipts for any additional expenses (food, accommodation).
- Submit a written claim: Send a formal complaint to the airline, citing Regulation 261/2004. The airline is obliged to respond within a reasonable timeframe.
- Consumer Protection Authorities: If the airline refuses to pay without valid justification, contact the Consumer Protection and Technical Regulatory Authority (TTJA) or file a claim in court.
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