Understanding Your Rights to Flight Delay Compensation

Flight delays are an unavoidable part of air travel, but as a passenger, you may be entitled to financial compensation under certain circumstances. The European Union’s Regulation 261/2004 (EU261) protects passengers flying within, from, or to the EU with an EU-based airline. If your flight is delayed for more than three hours due to reasons within the airline’s control, you could claim up to €600 in compensation, depending on the flight distance. Airlines are obligated to provide assistance such as meals, refreshments, and accommodation if necessary during long delays. However, compensation does not apply to delays caused by extraordinary circumstances like severe weather, air traffic control restrictions, or political instability. To make a successful claim, keep your boarding pass, booking confirmation, and note the exact arrival time at your destination. Submit your claim directly to the airline or use a specialized compensation service if needed. Many passengers miss out on their rightful compensation due to lack of awareness or unclear procedures. Knowing your rights can help you recover what you’re owed and hold airlines accountable for service disruptions. The process is simpler than most think, and persistence often pays off.