Air travel can be a thrilling experience, but disruptions such as flight delays, cancellations, rejected boarding, and missed connections can rapidly turn an exciting voyage into a stressful one. Understanding your rights as a passenger can help relieve some of the frustration. In the European Union, EC 261/2004 offers significant protections and compensation possibilities to impacted visitors.
Flight delays and cancellations
When a flight is delayed by more than three hours reaching its destination, the frustration can be obvious. According to European Union regulation EC 261/2004, passengers may be entitled to compensation under specific circumstances. This legislation applies to aircraft operated by EU airlines and departing from an EU airport, as long as the incident occurred within the last six years.
Compensation for delays of more than three hours might be up to €600, depending on the flight’s distance and length of delay. This compensation is intended to help pay any additional expenses incurred as a result of the delay, such as meals, refreshments, and, if necessary, additional accommodations.
Denied boarding
Denied boarding happens when passengers are denied the opportunity to board their flight, usually due to overbooking. Under EC 261/2004, if you are denied boarding, you are entitled to compensation, unless the airline can demonstrate that the overbooking was justifiable and you were advised of this potential at the time of booking.
Compensation for denied boarding is based on the length of the flight and the duration of the delay in reaching your final destination. For example, compensation can range from €250 for short flights (up to 1,500 kilometers) to €600 for flights more than 3,500 kilometers.
Missed Connections
Missed connections can be a major nuisance, especially when they occur as a result of delays on the first leg of your travel. While compensation for missing connections might be more complicated, under certain conditions, airlines are required to rebook you on the next available trip at no additional cost. If the missed connection causes severe delays, the rights under EC 261/2004 regarding delay and cancellation may also apply.
Exceptions and Considerations
It is vital to remember that there are several exceptions to these compensation guidelines. Compensation may not be paid if the delay, cancellation, or denied boarding was caused by extreme circumstances beyond the airline’s control, such as severe weather or air traffic control decisions.
Regardless of the conditions that caused the disturbance, airlines must nonetheless give help and care, including meals, refreshments, and accommodations as needed.
Steps to Take If you encounter one of the following issues:
- Check your rights: Familiarize oneself with the exact provisions of EC261/2004.
- Document everything. Keep all receipts and document the extent of the disruption, including timeframes and contact information with the airline.
- Contact LeviaMICE: Consult LeviaMICE and request assistance and reimbursement.
- If the airline does not reply properly, you may register a complaint with the national enforcement agency in the country where the flight disruption happened.
- Seek Legal aid: If necessary, consult a claims business for legal counsel or aid in pursuing reimbursement.
Understanding your rights and the legislation that protect you can help you deal with the frustrations of travel disruptions more effectively. While delays and cancellations are annoying, knowing that there are options for compensation can bring some comfort and support during these times.
