Wizz Air Compensation: How Much Money Can You Get

Wizz Air has grown into one of Europe’s leading low-cost carriers in just 20 years. Their business model focuses on minimising operational costs by offering a no-frills service with limited optional add-ons. As the airline operates heavily within EU airspace, the Wizz Air compensation policies comply with strict passenger rights, backed by European law.

Did you know that you can get up to €600 if your flight gets delayed or cancelled? Or have you already experienced such a situation? Let’s discuss Wizz Air’s policies and how you can claim what is rightfully yours in case of a flight disruption.

  

Wizz Air Compensation Policies

As an airline based in an EU member state, Wizz Air is fully subject to Regulation EC 261/2004. This comprehensive passenger rights framework mandates airlines to compensate passengers for flight disruptions, provided certain criteria are met.

The regulation applies to all Wizz Air flights departing from an EU/EEA (European Economic Area) airport. Additionally, it includes flights operated by the airline arriving in the EU from non-EU airports if the flight is on a Wizz Air aircraft. However, several key conditions must be met before you can claim any compensation:

• The flight must be delayed, cancelled, or overbooked.
• The disruption must not be caused by extraordinary circumstances. These situations are outside the control of the airline and, therefore, exempt from compensation obligations.
• The passenger must have a confirmed booking and have checked in on time (usually no later than 45 minutes before the scheduled departure).

In case all criteria are met, you may be entitled to several types of compensation, often simultaneously. Additionally, the regulation provides several layers of protection for passengers:

• In the event of a delay or cancellation, passengers are entitled to certain amenities, their "right to care". Such could include meals, refreshments, hotel accommodations (if needed), and transportation between the airport and the hotel.
• Airlines must inform passengers of their rights, especially in cases where disruptions occur. Wizz Air is obligated to provide clear communication regarding delays, cancellations, and potential compensation.
• If a flight is cancelled or significantly delayed, passengers have the right to request a Wizz Air refund or be rerouted on the next available flight.

 

Can you claim flight delay compensation from Wizz Air?

Yes, you can claim flight delay compensation from Wizz Air. Flight delays are the most common form of travel disruption. Unfortunarely, not all flight delays result in compensation, but we will help you learn when you can expect and demand reimbursement. To qualify, your flight must arrive at its final destination more than 3 hours after the scheduled arrival time.

However, the delay must again not be caused by extraordinary circumstances, like the ones we mentioned above.

Under EC 261/2004 you can get between €250 and €600 in compensation for the Wizz Air flight delay. However, the amount you will be entitled to under the regulation depends the distance of the actual flight:  

• For short-distance flights up to 1,500 km, you will be entitled to €250.
• For intermediate-distance flights between 1,500 and 3,500 km, the compensation can reach €400.
• For long-distance flights exceeding 3,500 km, you can claim up to €600, which is the limit. 

These compensation amounts are fixed, meaning passengers are entitled to the full sum regardless of the cost of their ticket. As most Wizz Air tickets tend to be on the cheap end, you could even make a profit from your negative experience. 

 

How to get compensation for cancelled flight with Wizz Air?

EC 261/2004 ensures that all Wizz Air passengers affected by flight cancellations are compensated, rerouted, or refunded. When a flight is cancelled, you have the right to choose between:

• Reimbursement of the ticket cost if you change your mind and decide not to travel.
• Re-routing to the final destination on the next available Wizz Air flight or another airline. You will not be charged extra even if the ticket costs more than your original one. 

As always, there are different situations and conditions. You are entitled to compensation if you are notified of the Wizz Air flight cancellation less than 14 days before the scheduled departure. You will not be eligible for additional reimbursement if the airline cancels at an earlier stage. 

Let’s imagine a common scenario that could well happen to anyone. Suppose Wizz Air cancels your flight within this 14-day window. In that case, you are eligible for compensation unless they offer you an alternative flight that departs no earlier than 2 hours before the original departure time and arrives at the destination no later than 2 hours after the original arrival time.

Keep in mind that finding an alternative flight to the same destination within that short period is rare and often impossible. Already, we can start talking about compensation amounts. Depending on the length of the flight, the sum varies between €250 and €600 in compensation for cancelled Wizz Air flight. 

It also applies to each ticket on your reservation. So, if your booking includes three tickets, you will get compensated separately for each. 

In addition to financial compensation, you are also entitled to full assistance from Wizz Air if rebooking causes other difficulties. For instance, if you have to stay an extra night because of the new itinerary, the airline has to cover hotel accommodation and transfers.

 

Wizz Air Voluntary Cancellation Policy

The Wizz Air compensation policy for voluntary cancellations depends heavily on when the cancellation occurs. The key is the timing relative to your flight departure.

 

More than 14 days before departure

You will be eligible for a refund if you cancel your Wizz Air flight more than two weeks before departure. However, some subtleties should be considered before you decide to proceed. 

Wizz Air charges a cancellation fee, which will be deducted from the amount paid for the ticket. And this fee is considerable for a low-cost carrier. You will pay between €60 and €80 for each ticket if you decide to cancel your booking. 

There have been countless cases of people opting not to get a refund simply because the fee is higher than their original ticket price. 

Otherwise, the refund is typically issued in the form of WIZZ credits, but you can also request the refund to be processed back to the original payment method. Unfortunately, there is no automatic or direct way to do it, so you will have to speak with their customer service and wait extra days. 

 

Less than 14 days before departure

Cancellations within the final two-week period can cost you dearly. On paper, you are still eligible for a Wizz Air refund. But one could say that going for it is entirely pointless with all the extra fees. 

Issuing a refund with less than 14 days until departure will cost you between €80 and €100 per ticket. This is the so-called “seat protection fee,” which is higher than the regular cancellation fee. But as always, if you decide to proceed, you get to choose whether you want WIZZ Credits or not.

 

Free Cancellation with Wizz Flex

Wizz Air offers Wizz Flex as an optional add-on for all reservations. This is a service offered that gives passengers greater flexibility to change their travel plans without incurring additional charges. Travellers can modify their flight up to 3 hours before departure without having to pay a change fee. 

However, it’s important to note that any fare difference between the original and new flights will still apply, meaning if the new flight is more expensive, passengers must cover the price difference.

In addition to flight changes, Wizz Flex allows customers to cancel their flight up to 3 hours before the scheduled departure and receive a 100% refund in Wizz credits. These credits can then be used for future bookings with Wizz Air and are valid for up to 90 days. 

Wizz Flex is available as an add-on during the booking process. It should also be available later through your Wizz profile. It’s especially useful for those seeking flexibility while travelling on a budget. It minimises the potential costs associated with changing or cancelling flights.

 

Can I get compensation for denied Boarding with Wizz Air?

Denied boarding typically occurs as a result of overbooking. It is a practice used by airlines to compensate for no-show passengers. Unfortunately, when more passengers show up than there are available seats, some passengers may be denied boarding.

In cases of overbooking, airlines often seek volunteers to give up their seats in exchange for compensation. Passengers could even ask for bonus travel arrangements, and airlines often agree.

If no volunteers are found, the staff could resort to involuntarily denied boarding.  Luckily, regulation EC 261/2004 ensures that passengers are entitled to Wizz Air compensation if they get picked. You can get €250 for flights up to 1,500 km, €400 for flights between 1,500 and 3,500 km, and €600 for flights over 3,500 km.

Additionally, you have to choose between a full Wizz Air refund or rerouting to your final destination on the next available flight. And while you wait, you are entitled to the same amenities and services as with all other types of disruptions. Namely, meals, refreshments, and accommodation. 

The airline could also reimburse you for additional costs caused by the disruption. For instance, if you miss connecting flights or you can’t complete an important part of your journey. Make sure to include anything that could be relevant on your own. There is a good chance you will not be asked by the representatives. 

 

Can you get a refund on Wizz Air?

As a low-cost airline, there is a limited list of scenarios where full ticket refunds from Wizz Air are available. Unless a specific circumstance arises, such as flight cancellations by the airline or significant delays, you will have to pay a fee before you get your refund. 

If a flight is delayed by more than 5 hours, passengers have the right to cancel their booking and receive a full refund for free. Alternatively, if Wizz Air makes major changes to the schedule, passengers may qualify for a refund if the new departure time is not acceptable​.

If passengers cancel their reservations voluntarily with more than 14 days until departure, then they are entitled to a full refund minus a cancellation fee. 

The airline offers two primary payment methods. You can either opt for Wizz Credits or your original payment method. The airline wants you to keep your money in their system, so they made the first option far more accessible. But Wizz Credits limit you substantially and mandate you to spend money within a certain period. 

In other words, Wizz Credits expire if you don’t use them within a few months. Wizz Air cash refunds take a little longer but give you complete control over your money. You will be able to spend it or not spend it on whatever you like and the airline can’t force you to book new flights. 

And the best part is you can SkyRefund handles the whole process. Submit your claim for compensation and let a SkyRefund expert will assist you all the way. 

 

Non-Refundable Scenarios

You will not be entitled to a refund if you miss your flight. However, you may have the option to rebook with an additional fee or use Wizz Flex for flexibility in rebooking​.

Passengers who cancel their flight voluntarily, especially within 14 days of departure, are often not eligible for a full refund. In the best-case scenario, you may receive credits minus the applicable cancellation fees. Those with Wizz Flex tickets have more lenient terms, allowing them to make changes without fees​.

 

Wizz Air Refund Policy for Special Circumstances

Wizz Air acknowledges certain special cases where refunds may be granted. However, they often require specific documentation, which complicates the process.  

In the event of a serious medical issue, passengers may be eligible for a Wizz Air refund upon providing appropriate proof. You will either need a doctor’s note or more comprehensive hospital documents. This process is not automatic and involves contacting their customer service. 

In the case of the death of a close family member, customers can apply for a full refund without the usual fees. The refund process is straightforward, requiring documentation (such as a death certificate) to support the claim​.

The refund will be processed either in WIZZ credits or returned to the original payment method upon request. Passengers need to contact Wizz Air’s customer service to facilitate this process and ensure all required documents are submitted​.

 

Wizz Air Compensation for Lost or Delayed Baggage

Reimbursement for lost or damaged baggage is covered under the Montreal Convention. This international treaty regulates airline liability for luggage issues. 

In cases where the airline loses your baggage, you can file several compensation claims. Although SkyRefund doesn’t work with lost luggage claims, we are here to help you learn your rights nonetheless. 

As a start, if any baggage is delayed or missing, Wizz Air typically offers passengers a daily stipend to cover essential items until the luggage is returned. Wizz Air may also offer compensation for damaged luggage, depending on the extent of the damage. However, keep in mind that their policy is very strict. You will not be compensated for any of the following damages: 

• Scratches and cuts
• Broken fragile items
• Damaged jewellery
• Impaired video equipment

Compensation claims must be submitted within strict time limits for the different cases. You have seven days to report damages and 21 days after arrival to report delayed baggage. 

Claims for lost belongings become available after the initial 21 days. However, if more than four days pass after your time of arrival, you can be entitled to compensation with an upper limit of €1,555 per bag. Do not expect to receive the maximum, as the amount depends on the value of the items you lost. 

 

Baggage Protection Program 

Wizz Air teamed up with Blue Ribbon Bags to create this service, which is available as an add-on. It guarantees compensation worth €300 per bag for the price of €2.50. You can add it to your reservation and get reimbursed if your baggage remains lost 96 hours after arrival. The best part is that you will get compensated even if your stuff gets found later. 

 

Tips for Maximising Your Chances of Wizz Air Refund and Compensation

 

Keep All Documents

One of the most critical steps in maximising your chances of getting a Wizz Air refund or compensation is to keep all relevant documentation. This includes boarding passes, confirmation emails, receipts for any expenses, and any other correspondence with the airline. 

These documents will serve as evidence when submitting a claim, regardless if you do it by yourself or through our platform. Always ensure you can prove your flight details, expenses, and interactions with any airline. 

 

Submit Claims as Soon as Possible

Time is money when dealing with Wizz Air compensation claims. Airlines often have deadlines for submitting claims, and you don’t want to wait when dealing with them, in particular. Always file your claims as soon as possible to avoid complications or potential rejection due to late submission. The only exception is when they lose your baggage and you have to wait a certain period to become eligible for certain compensations. 

 

Use Wizz Credits Wisely

Wizz Air frequently offers refunds in the form of Wizz credits, which can be used for future bookings. It’s essential to read their policy and understand how these credits work. Specifically, their expiration date (typically 1 year from issuance). If you don’t expect to travel soon, then this method is probably not a good option. 

The airline will sometimes offer bonuses, such as a 20% increase on credit-based refunds. In this case, this option could be beneficial. But it will still be pointless if you don’t use these extra credits soon. 

 

Memorise Your EC 261/2004 Rights

We keep returning to this regulation because it will be your best friend if you experience a flight disruption. Never forget that the airline probably doesn’t want to pay you extra, and knowing your passenger rights will help you handle the compensation process. 

 

Recent Developments and Changes in Wizz Air Policies

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly altered the landscape of global air travel, forcing airlines to adapt to unprecedented disruptions. Wizz Air was particularly affected by the pandemic due to its broad customer base.

 

Post-Pandemic Flight Compensation and Refund Trends

With entire countries closing their borders and flights grounded for weeks or months during the pandemic, there was a huge surge in customer demand for refunds. People sought reimbursement for booked trips they planned in advance. Airlines struggled to process the sheer volume of requests promptly, often taking several months to resolve a case.

Wizz Air tried several methods to respond to these challenges. Initially, they offered vouchers and Wizz Credits as an alternative to cash refunds. This was an attempt to manage the cash flow during the period of financial uncertainty. 

But imagine getting refunded in credits that are valid for a year at a time when nobody knew how long the pandemic would last. Obviously, the new policy received criticism as customers preferred cash refunds. 

Over time, the policies were adapted to allow customers to choose between vouchers and cash. However, the processing times for the latter remained slow in most cases. 

Passengers who faced disruptions often sought Wizz Air compensation under EU regulations. However, during the pandemic, airlines could invoke the "extraordinary circumstances" clause of EC 261/2004. 

It exempts them from paying reimbursement if the disruption was caused by factors beyond their control. Government-imposed travel bans or public health emergencies are both listed in this category. 

Post-pandemic, Wizz Air has been working to rebuild passenger confidence. The airline has adjusted its policies to offer more flexibility in booking and cancellation terms. 

 

Changes in European Aviation Laws

The aviation industry in Europe is one of the most highly regulated in the world. Some of the most significant practices stem from the broader application and enforcement of Regulation EC 261/2004.

One key area of regulatory evolution has been the UK’s departure from the European Union (Brexit). While EC 261/2004 still applies to flights departing from or arriving in EU member states, the UK now operates under its own version of the law, known as UK 261. 

This means that Wizz Air compensation claims can still be made under similar terms when flying between the UK and Europe. However, the process might differ slightly due to the separate regulatory oversight in the UK and EU.

Beyond Brexit, the European Commission has also been considering revisions to EC 261/2004. These revisions aim to strike a better balance between the rights of passengers and the operational realities faced by airlines. 

Potential reforms include clearer definitions of "extraordinary circumstances," which currently allow airlines to find excuses to avoid compensation payments. Clarifying these definitions could result in fewer instances where airlines, including Wizz Air, can invoke this clause. The ultimate goal is to provide greater protection for passengers.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

How long does it take to receive a refund from Wizz Air?

Refunds from Wizz Air typically take between 48 hours and 30 days to process, depending on the payment method. If you choose to receive Wizz credits, you should have your funds available within a couple of days. However, if you request the refund back to your credit card or bank account, the timeline can be extended substantially. 

 

Can I get Wizz Air compensation if my flight is delayed due to weather conditions?

No, delays caused by weather conditions are considered extraordinary circumstances and are not eligible for compensation under EC 261/2004. However, Wizz Air may provide assistance, such as meals or accommodation if the delay is significant. Compensation is only available for delays caused by reasons within the airline's control.

 

How do I know if I’m eligible for EC 261/2004 compensation?

Your flight must depart from or arrive at an EU/EEA airport, or you must be travelling with an EU-based airline. The delay must be 3 hours or more upon arrival, or your flight must be cancelled without proper notice. Lastly, the disruption should not be due to extraordinary circumstances.

 

What should I do if I’m denied boarding by Wizz Air?

If you're denied boarding due to overbooking or operational reasons, you have rights under EC 261/2004. You can claim financial compensation, which depends on the flight distance. You are entitled to alternative travel arrangements or a full refund, as well as meals, refreshments, and accommodation, if necessary while waiting for the next available flight. 

 

Let a SkyRefund expert handle your case

Based on passenger numbers, Wizz Air ranked 7th among the European airlines in 2023. This translates into countless customer claims annually and slower response times. Customers have been reporting extended processing periods for Wizz Air compensation for years. Many people even quit trying or got rejected because they didn’t do it the right way. 

Let us do the hard work for you. Our experts will build a strong case for your situation and fight for your rights in your stead, including in court. File your claim through SkyRefund and let us send it to the right people and handle the entire process. 

 

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