Essential strategies to aid in securing appropriate compensation when a flight is postponed or cancelled
Delays in flights can be a frustrating experience for passengers, but under UK and EU regulations, you may be eligible for compensation if your flight arrives at least three hours late at your final destination. The exact amount you can claim varies depending on the flight distance and length of the delay.
For flights covering a distance of up to 1,500km, you could claim between £220 and £350 if delayed by at least three hours. Flights covering a distance between 1,500 and 3,500km could entitle you to £350 if delayed by at least three hours. For flights covering more than 3,500km, you could claim £260 for a delay of 3 to 4 hours, and £520 for a delay of more than 4 hours.
It's essential to note that delays are calculated from when the doors open at the arrival gate, not touchdown. If a missed connection causes a late arrival beyond 3 hours at the final destination, compensation applies based on the total delay there.
However, there are pitfalls to avoid when claiming compensation. Relying on bad weather as an excuse is a common tactic used by airlines to deny claims, but compensation is possible unless the delay was caused by extraordinary unavoidable circumstances. It's also important to make claims within the stipulated time frame, typically within 2–6 years depending on the jurisdiction.
Other pitfalls include incorrect calculation of delay, not including connecting flights, assuming ticket cost matters, and not being aware of the specific rules under UK261 or EU261. Claims can be made directly or via specialized services that work on a no-win/no-fee basis.
If an airline denies compensation, passengers should ask for a written explanation. It's recommended to try to do the claim yourself or get someone else to help before using a claims management company, as they can charge a significant percentage of the compensation amount.
Remember, compensation is only applicable for flights with UK or EU airlines, or flights departing from the UK or EU. Passengers can claim compensation if the reason for the cancellation is within the airline's control, such as staff shortages, sickness, cancelled flights due to under-booking, or late pilots.
During delays, airlines are required to provide food, drink, phone access, accommodation, and transport between the hotel and airport. If a flight is cancelled, passengers can request a refund or a replacement flight. If the replacement flight causes a delay of at least two hours or the flight was cancelled less than 14 days before takeoff, compensation is due.
Passengers should beware of scammers posing as airline customer service teams or the CAA, who may try to steal personal and financial information or charge a fee for help with claims. It's important to use contact details found independently and an airline's official website to claim compensation.
In the event of flight cancellations or delays this summer, it's crucial to stay informed and assert your rights to compensation. For more information, visit the official websites of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) or the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
- When experiencing a delay of at least three hours during your travel and the flight covers a distance of up to 1,500km under UK or EU regulations, you might be eligible to claim compensation between £220 and £350.
- If your lifestyle involves frequent travel and you're concerned about unexpected costs due to flight disruptions, investing in insurance could protect you financially and ensure you're covered for potential compensation claims in accordance with UK261 or EU261 regulations.
