Compensation for Flight Delays and Cancellations: Your Rights and Options

Understanding Your Rights:

EU Regulation 261/2004: Passengers departing from an EU airport or arriving at an EU airport on an EU-based airline may be entitled to compensation for flight delays and cancellations, unless caused by extraordinary circumstances (e.g., severe weather, air traffic control strikes). US Department of Transportation (DOT) Rules: In the United States, airlines are required to compensate passengers for delays and cancellations depending on the circumstances and ticket price.

Compensation Entitlements:

Flight Delays:

Compensation varies based on the length of delay and distance of the flight.

In the EU, compensation ranges from €250 to €600, depending on the distance of the flight and the length of the delay caused by rebooking.

In the US, compensation is not mandatory for delays but may be offered at the airline's discretion, often in the form of meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, or future travel credits.

Flight Cancellations:

Passengers may choose between rebooking on an alternative flight or receiving a refund for the unused ticket segment.

In the EU, compensation for flight cancellations is similar to that for delays, depending on the circumstances and when passengers were notified of the cancellation.

Extraordinary Circumstances:

Airlines are not required to provide compensation if the flight disruption is caused by extraordinary circumstances beyond their control, such as: Severe weather conditions

Political instability or security risks Air traffic control strikes

Medical emergencies or crew scheduling issues