How Do I Claim Compensation If My Flight Gets Cancelled
Flight cancellations are an unfortunate part of air travel that can disrupt your plans, cause delays, and result in unexpected expenses. However, if your flight is cancelled, you may be entitled to flight cancellation compensation under specific regulations, depending on the circumstances. Here’s a detailed guide on understanding your rights and claiming compensation effectively.
Understanding Flight Cancellations
Flight cancellations occur when an airline cancels a scheduled flight for any reason, and this can be caused by:
- Operational Issues: Mechanical problems, crew shortages, or overbooking.
- Weather Conditions: Storms, heavy snowfall, or other severe weather events.
- Airline Strikes: Strikes involving airline staff or airport personnel.
- Extraordinary Circumstances: Situations beyond the airline's control, such as security risks or natural disasters.
While cancellations can be inconvenient, the EU Regulation 261/2004 aims to protect passengers and offer compensation where applicable.
When Are You Eligible for Flight Cancellation Compensation?
Eligibility for cancelled flight compensation depends on the reason for the cancellation and how much notice the airline provides.
Under EU Regulation 261/2004 (EU261)
If your flight departs from an EU airport or arrives in the EU on an EU-based carrier:
- The airline cancelled your flight less than 14 days before departure.
- The cancellation was not caused by extraordinary circumstances.
The compensation amount is based on the flight distance. While a 1500 km flight distance will get you €250, flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km will attract €400 and over 3500 km will get you €600.
What Are Your Rights in Case of a Cancelled Flight?
Your rights as a passenger when a flight is cancelled include:
1. Rebooking or Refund
Airlines must offer you the choice to rebook on the next available flight, even if it’s with another carrier, although that’s less likely the case. You can also ask for a refund of your ticket.
2. Right to Care
For delays over 2 hours, airlines must provide meals and refreshments. If the delay results in a cancellation that requires an overnight stay, you’re entitled to hotel accommodations and transportation to and from the airport.
3. Alternative Travel Options
If your journey is disrupted due to a flight cancellation, airlines must explore alternative travel arrangements for you, to minimize inconvenience.
Steps to Claim Flight Cancellation Compensation
1. Confirm Eligibility
Start by verifying that your situation qualifies for compensation. If it’s an EU-based flight, check the cancellation notice period – less than 14 days to departure, and the reason for the cancellation – within the airline’s control.
2. Request Written Confirmation
Ask the airline for written confirmation of the cancellation and its cause. This documentation will be helpful when filing a claim, especially if the reason is within the airline’s control.
3. Retain All Documentation
Keep all your documents intact, from your flight itinerary to your tickets and boarding passes. Also, include the written communication from the airline. These will support your claim.
4. File a Compensation Claim
Legal Tech platforms like Skycop have detailed information to guide you on how to easily claim compensation for a cancelled flight. Get informed and ask questions as necessary, while gathering all supporting documents and preparing to rebook another flight.
Bottom Line
If you are ever faced with flight cancellations, you can use the EC261 law to your advantage and ease the burden. This article explains briefly all you need to know and how to get started to ensure you’re duly compensated.
