My Flight Has Been Cancelled, Can I Claim Compensation?

Flight cancellations can be extremely frustrating. Not only do they disrupt travel plans, but they can also cause financial losses. However, if your flight has been cancelled, you may be entitled to claim compensation.

When Can You Claim Compensation for a Cancelled Flight?

You can claim compensation for a cancelled flight under certain circumstances. According to EU Regulation 261/2004, you can claim compensation if:

• Your flight departed from an EU airport
• Your flight arrived at an EU airport and was operated by an EU airline
• Your flight was cancelled less than 14 days before the scheduled departure date
• The airline is responsible for the cancellation (e.g. due to technical issues, crew shortages, etc.)

How Much Compensation Can You Claim?

The amount of compensation you are entitled to depends on the distance of your flight.

• €250 for flights up to 1,500km
• €400 for flights between 1,500km and 3,500km
• €600 for flights over 3,500km

If your flight distance was more than 3,500km and you arrived at your destination with a delay of more than three hours, you may be entitled to 50% of the compensation amount.

How to Claim Compensation for a Cancelled Flight?

If your flight has been cancelled and you are eligible for compensation, you can claim it directly from the airline. You will need to provide proof of your booking and the cancellation.

If the airline refuses to pay or you are not satisfied with their response, you can contact the national aviation authority in your country or the European Consumer Centre for assistance.

Conclusion

If your flight has been cancelled, it is important to know your rights and whether you are entitled to compensation. Remember, you can only claim compensation under specific circumstances, such as if your flight was cancelled less than 14 days before the scheduled departure date and if the airline was responsible for the cancellation.