Aer Lingus Flight Compensation and Refund

 

Flying with Aer Lingus is typically synonymous with a smooth and enjoyable experience, but like all airlines, they are not immune to flight disruptions. And when these unpleasant situations occur, you may be entitled to compensation or a full refund. The following article highlights all cases when you can claim Aer Lingus compensation, the general conditions of their refund policy, and common setbacks you may experience when dealing with their customer service. 

 

When Can You Claim Aer Lingus Compensation?

As an Irish airline, Aer Lingus adheres to the compensation rules outlined in Regulation EC 261/2004. This law provides passengers with the right to claim compensation for significant delays, cancellations, or instances of denied boarding.

However, eligibility for compensation depends on factors such as the length of the delay, the reason for the disruption, and whether the airline took the necessary steps to handle the issue. 

 

Aer Lingus Flight Delay Compensation 

Passengers may be eligible for compensation whenever an Aer Lingus flight is delayed for three hours or more upon arrival. Compensation amounts are based on the original flight distance: 

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

Keep in mind that not all delays qualify for compensation. The Aer Lingus flight delay must be caused by factors within the airline’s control. 

In addition to monetary compensation, you have a right to care if the delay extends beyond 2 hours. The airline must provide food and beverages, and hotel accommodation if the disruption leads to an overnight stay. 

 

When is Aer Lingus flight cancellation compensation available?

You may be entitled to Aer Lingus compensation if the airline cancels your flight less than 14 days before departure. Passengers affected by the disruption have the right to a full refund or a rebooking on the next available flight. However, if the flight cancellation was due to extraordinary circumstances, Aer Lingus is not required to provide compensation. 

 

Possible compensation amounts for flight cancellations:

• €250 (£220) for short haul flights < 1,500 km.
• €400 (£350) for medium-haul flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km.
• €600 (£520) for long-haul flights > 3,500 km. 

Expert Tip: Avoid accepting travel vouchers as a refund unless you are sure you will use them soon. Vouchers may come with restrictions or expiry dates.

 

 

Overbooking & Denied Boarding

When more passengers check in than there are available seats due to overbooking, some travellers may be denied boarding against their will. Although this is a rare issue, it is covered by EC 261/2004 and the Aer Lingus compensation amounts mirror those for the other disruptions mentioned above. 

However, keep in mind that you must not have voluntarily given up your seat in exchange for travel vouchers or an alternative flight to be eligible for this compensation.

Expert Tip: If you are denied boarding against your will, insist on written proof from Aer Lingus stating the reason for the denial. This documentation is crucial for filing a successful compensation claim.

 

Aer Lingus Refund Policy: Conditions and Considerations

Aer Lingus provides passengers with refund options based on their ticket type and the circumstances surrounding their request. You may be eligible for a refund in the following situations:

• If you choose not to accept an alternative rerouting after an Aer Lingus flight cancellation.
• A refund request may be submitted if the airline makes a substantial change to the flight schedule that makes travel impractical.
• Some fare classes allow voluntary cancellations and a partial or full refund. However, keep in mind that most fares can only be refunded in the form of travel vouchers.
• Bookings for transatlantic flights from the United States and Canada include 24 hours for free cancellations as mandated by the U.S. Department of Transportation.  
• Aer Lingus may grant a refund if a passenger cannot travel due to the death of an immediate family member but you will have to provide a valid death certificate.

 

Special Considerations for Refunds

• You may be eligible for a partial refund based on the unused segment of your booking.
• If you miss a connecting flight due to an Aer Lingus flight delay, you may be entitled to a refund, alternative rebooking, or compensation under EC 261/2004. Check your compensation eligibility here. 
• You can request a refund of unused government taxes and fees even for non-refundable fares. 
• Refund requests for some fares include a refund administration fee of £12. 

 

Aer Lingus Compensation & Refund Process: Common Issues + Expert Tips for Passengers

Continue reading below to find some of the most common issues people face when dealing with Aer Lingus compensation claims and our expert tips on how to address them.

 

Fare Rules

Aer Lingus operates with approximately 10 fare classes, each with its own policies. Most people are unaware of the strict conditions attached to their tickets, leading to confusion when they attempt to cancel or reschedule their flights. We must also note that several Aer Lingus fares are refundable but only in the form of vouchers. 

Expert Tip: Carefully review the full list of fare conditions before booking your ticket. Keep in mind that cheaper fares typically offer limited flexibility. 

 

Downgrading

Aer Lingus is required to provide partial reimbursement of the ticket price under Regulation EC 261/2004 to passengers who were downgraded to a lower class due to overbooking or other operational reasons. The amount of compensation depends on the flight distance and varies between 30% for flights up to 1,500 km and 75% for flights over 3,500 km. 

Expert Tip: If you are downgraded, insist on a partial refund in cash as airlines may attempt to offer travel vouchers instead of a monetary refund.

 

Ambiguity in EU 261 Claims

People often experience setbacks with their EU 261 compensation claims, particularly when Aer Lingus disputes eligibility. Airlines often resort to the argument that a disruption was caused by extraordinary circumstances.

Expert Tip: If you believe your claim was unfairly rejected, seek legal assistance or re-submit your Aer Lingus compensation claim through a professional service like SkyRefund.

 

Proving Eligibility for Compensation

Be prepared to provide strong supporting documentation when you submit a claim for compensation as dealing with corporate rarely goes as planned without valid proof. 

Expert Tip: Always keep copies of all documentation connected to your booking and experience. Such include boarding passes, booking confirmation, receipts, and any written communication from Aer Lingus regarding the disruption.

 

Why SkyRefund?

Winning a compensation claim as an individual is never a straightforward process. Airlines can dispute claims or delay their responses, and people often don’t know how to handle these situations.  

Instead of dealing with the airline directly, you can submit your Aer Lingus compensation claim through SkyRefund. Our legal team takes over the entire process on your behalf and handles all communication with the airline. 

 

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Frequently Asked Questions: 

 

How do I know if my flight is eligible for compensation?

Your Aer Lingus flight must have departed from an EU/EEA airport, be operated by an EU-based airline, delayed by 3 hours or more, or get cancelled on short notice. Find out if your flight is eligible for compensation under EC 261/2004 with our tool. 

 

Can you claim compensation for a delayed flight due to weather?

Severe weather conditions usually qualify as extraordinary circumstances and exempt airlines from paying compensation under Regulation EC 261/2004. 

 

How much is the EU flight compensation?

Compensation under EU 261/2004 is based on the distance of your flight and the duration of the delay. The amounts range from €250 to €600.