Anyone who’s ever been stuck in an airport because of a flight delay or flight cancellation knows how frustrating it can be. You’ve planned your trip, packed your bags, and cleared your schedule, only to have your travel plans thrown off course. But the good news is that, depending on your situation, you might be entitled to flight delay and cancellation compensation.

In this guide, we’ll explain when you can get compensation, how to claim it, and what to do if your flight is delayed or cancelled.

No problem. Airline Help stands by your side. Call us at 800-594(4991) (OTA) and we’ll handle the next steps.

What is Flight Delay and Cancellation Compensation?

Flight delay and cancellation compensation refers to the payment or assistance provided by airlines to passengers when their flight is delayed or cancelled for reasons within the airline’s control. This can include compensation in the form of:

• Monetary compensation
• Meal vouchers
• Hotel accommodations
• Transport reimbursements
• Rebooking on alternative flights

However, compensation rules vary depending on the airline, the cause of the delay or cancellation, and the laws of the country where the flight is operated.

When Are You Eligible for Compensation?

Not all flight delays or cancellations will result in compensation. Whether or not you’re eligible depends on several factors, including the reason for the delay or cancellation, the length of the delay, and the airline’s policies.

1. Flight Cancellation

When an airline cancels a flight, you may be entitled to compensation under certain circumstances. This is particularly true when the cancellation is due to the airline’s fault, such as technical issues or staff shortages. If the cancellation happens well in advance, the airline should offer you a full refund or an alternative flight. In many cases, you might also be entitled to compensation.

2. Flight Delay

Flight delays are a bit more complex. Airlines are typically required to compensate passengers if the delay is significant—usually if the delay exceeds 3 hours or more, depending on the country’s laws. However, if the delay is caused by circumstances outside the airline’s control, such as weather or air traffic control delays, compensation may not be offered.

3. Different Rules Based on Distance and Time

The compensation rules may also depend on the distance you’re travelling and the length of the delay. For example, if your flight is delayed for 3 hours or more and the flight is within the EU or UK, you could be entitled to up to €250–€600, depending on the distance and delay.

When Can You Claim Compensation?

Generally, you can claim compensation if:

• The airline is responsible for the delay or cancellation
• The flight is delayed by 3 hours or more
• The cancellation happens within a certain time frame (usually within 14 days of departure)

How Much Compensation Can You Get?

The amount of flight cancellation compensation you’re entitled to depends on several factors, including:

1. Distance of the Flight

Compensation varies based on how far you are flying. For example:

• For flights under 1,500 km: You could receive €250 in compensation.
• For flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km: You could receive €400.
• For flights over 3,500 km: You could be entitled to €600.

2. Length of the Delay

The compensation amount can also depend on how long you are delayed. For instance:

• Delays of 3 to 4 hours: Partial compensation
• Delays of over 4 hours: Full compensation
• Cancellations with less than 14 days’ notice: Full compensation, plus alternative flight options or a refund

How to Claim Compensation

If you’ve experienced a flight delay or cancellation, you can claim compensation in several ways. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you with the process:

1. Check Your Eligibility

Before filing a claim, check if you’re eligible for compensation. If the delay was caused by something within the airline’s control, such as technical problems or staffing issues, you are likely eligible. However, if it was caused by factors outside their control (e.g., bad weather or a strike), compensation may not be possible.

2. File a Claim with the Airline

The most direct way to claim compensation is to contact the airline. Here’s how:

1. Visit the airline’s official website and find the “Claim Compensation” or “Customer Service” section.
2. Fill out the claim form with your flight details (flight number, date of travel, etc.).
3. Attach any required documents, such as boarding passes, receipts, or proof of the delay.
4. Submit your claim and wait for the airline to respond.

3. Use Third-Party Services

If you find the process confusing or time-consuming, there are third-party services that can help. Companies like AirHelp and ClaimCompass offer compensation claim services. These companies will:

• Check if you’re eligible for compensation
• Handle the entire process for you
• Take a small percentage of the compensation as their fee if the claim is successful

4. Keep Documentation

It’s crucial to keep all documentation related to the delay or cancellation. This includes:

• Your boarding pass
• Any emails or messages from the airline
• Receipts for expenses like food or transportation
• A record of the delay (including the reason provided by the airline)

These documents will support your claim and speed up the process.

No problem. Airline Help stands by your side. Call us at 800-594(4991) (OTA) and we’ll handle the next steps.

Common Reasons for Delays and Cancellations

Understanding the reason for the delay or cancellation can help determine if you’re eligible for compensation. Some common reasons include:

• Weather conditions: Airlines are not required to compensate for delays or cancellations due to severe weather, as these are out of their control.
• Technical issues: If the delay is caused by technical problems or aircraft maintenance, the airline may be liable for compensation.
• Strikes or labour issues: These can sometimes be grounds for compensation if they involve airline staff.
• Overbooking: If the flight is overbooked and you are bumped from the flight, the airline may need to compensate you.

Can You Get Compensation for a Missed Connection?

Yes, in some cases, if your flight delay leads to a missed connection, you might be eligible for compensation. However, this depends on whether the airline was at fault for the delay. If your connecting flight is with the same airline and they are responsible for the delay, you should be entitled to compensation. You can also ask for a rebooking or a full refund.

What to Do If Your Claim Is Denied

If your compensation claim is denied, don’t give up. You have options:

• Contact the airline again: Sometimes a second request or more details can help get your claim approved.
• File a complaint with the aviation regulator: In many countries, aviation regulators can step in if an airline refuses to compensate.
• Seek legal help: If all else fails, you can consult with a legal expert to determine if you have a case for compensation.

Final Thoughts

Experiencing a flight delay or cancellation is never pleasant, but knowing your rights can make all the difference. You may be entitled to flight cancellation compensation or flight delay and cancellation compensation, depending on the circumstances.

To make the most of your claim:

• Understand your eligibility
• Keep all documentation
• Be persistent when necessary

Don’t hesitate to claim what you’re entitled to. Airlines have to follow the rules, and they must compensate you when they fail to meet their obligations.

Safe travels, and remember that staying informed is the key to a better travel experience!