Passenger Rights Explained: Airline Compensation

Passenger rights are especially robust in regions like the European Union, where Regulation EC 261/2004 establishes comprehensive standards for compensation and assistance in cases of flight disruptions. In these cases, passengers are entitled to certain reimbursements to minimise inconvenience and ensure accountability.  Here's a brief overview of the main categories:

• Flight Delay : Depending on the circumstances, you may be entitled to compensation if your flight arrives at your destination three hours or more after the scheduled time.
• Flight Cancellation : You may be eligible for compensation when an airline cancels your flight without adequate notice. In these cases, they are required to offer alternatives, refunds and, in some cases, monetary compensation.
• Denied Boarding : If an airline prevents you from boarding a flight due to overbooking or other reasons beyond your control.

These flight rights are designed to ensure all passengers are treated fairly and compensated for significant disruptions, as outlined in the detailed sections below. Let’s delve into the subtleties of each category.

Delay Compensation

Flight delays occur when unforeseen circumstances or operational inefficiencies cause a flight to depart or arrive later than planned. Flight delay compensation is a monetary payment intended to compensate passengers for the inconvenience.

In What Cases Can You File a Claim?

You can file a claim if the following criteria are met:

• Your flight arrives at the final destination 3 hours or more after the scheduled time.      
• The flight is either departing from a country in the EU or operated by an EU-based airline arriving in the EU.
• The flight delay was caused by factors within the airline’s control , such as technical issues or staff shortages.
• You held a valid ticket and checked in at least 45 minutes before departure.

How Much Can You Claim?

Under EC 261/2004 , the compensation amount depends on the duration of the delay and the flight distance:

• £220 (€250) for flights < 1,500 km delayed by 3+ hours.
• £350 (€400) for flights in the range of 1,500–3,500 km delayed by 3+ hours.
• £520 (€600) for flights > 3,500 km delayed by 4+ hours.

Additionally, airlines must provide care services during long delays, including:

• Meals and refreshments.
• Access to communication, such as free phone calls or emails.
• Accommodation for unplanned overnight stays.
• Transport to and from the airport

Cancellation Compensation

Cancellation compensation applies when an airline cancels your flight but depends on multiple factors. Depending on your situation, you may be entitled to monetary compensation on top of a refund or alternative travel arrangements. 

In What Cases Can You File a Claim?

You are eligible to claim flight cancellation compensation under the following circumstances:

• The airline informed you of the cancellation less than 14 days before departure .
• The cancellation was caused by technical or operational issues , not extraordinary circumstances like weather or security threats.
• The airline failed to provide an acceptable alternative flight that departs or arrives within the designated timeframes.
• You experience a delay of 3+ hours when rerouted to your destination.

How Much Can You Claim?

Compensation follows the same rates as for flight delays:

• £220 (€250) for flights under 1,500 km.
• £350 (€400) for flights between 1,500–3,500 km.
• £520 (€600) for flights over 3,500 km.

Find out how much you are owed with our free compensation calculator !

Denied Boarding

Denied boarding occurs when an airline refuses to allow a passenger to board the aircraft, even though they hold a valid reservation and meet all requirements. This is often due to flight overbooking , a common practice where airlines sell more tickets than available seats, anticipating no-shows. 

Airlines are obligated to compensate affected passengers and provide alternative travel arrangements.

In What Cases Can You File a Claim?

You are eligible for denied boarding compensation if:

• You had a confirmed reservation and complied with all check-in procedures.
• You were involuntarily denied boarding due to the airline’s decision, not for reasons such as health or safety concerns.
• The airline failed to offer an alternative flight departing within a reasonable timeframe.

How Much Can You Claim?

Compensation is based on flight distance:

• £220 (€250) for flights under 1,500 km.
• £350 (€400) for flights between 1,500–3,500 km.
• £520 (€600) for flights over 3,500 km.

Additionally, airlines must provide care to passengers affected by this disruption.

How Can SkyRefund Help?

SkyRefund specialises in assisting passengers with claiming compensation for flight disruption incidents. Our team of experts handles the legal process on your behalf, ensuring maximum compensation with minimal hassle.

By filing your claim through SkyRefund, you can leverage your expertise to overcome common challenges such as complex airline policies, legal technicalities, and uncooperative carriers. Let us help you claim your flight compensation today!