A guide to air passengers rights

Millions of air travellers take to the skies each year, often unaware of the rights that exist to protect them in case of flight disruptions or lost luggage. These regulations are designed to ensure that passengers receive fair treatment when things go wrong.

Shockingly, nearly 90% of passengers don’t know about these rights, which can lead to missed compensation opportunities or settling for far less than they deserve.

Our purpose: raising awareness and helping you claim what’s yours

This is where AirClaimExperts comes in. Our goal is to make sure that passengers are informed about their rights and assist them in claiming the compensation they’re entitled to.
We are committed to breaking down complicated legal jargon and providing straightforward, accurate information so that passengers can handle any travel issues that arise with confidence.

We’re here to guide you through air travel challenges

At AirClaimExperts, we aim to empower travellers by offering vital knowledge about their rights. By simplifying complex laws, we help you understand your entitlements and deal with various flight disruptions outside of your control.
From delays and cancellations to denied boarding and missed connections, we’ve got you covered with the information and support you need.

 

We’ve got you covered with the information and support you need.

EC261: the cornerstone of passenger protections

Much like the protections offered by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to American travellers, the European Union has its own rules for compensating passengers in the event of delays or cancellations. These are laid out in EC Regulation 261/2004.
These rights aren’t limited to EU citizens; non-EU passengers, including Americans, are also covered when flying in European airspace.
EC 261 is one of the strongest air passenger protection laws in the world, holding airlines accountable for issues that cause significant travel disruptions. It covers passengers departing from EU airports and, in some cases, those arriving in the EU from other countries.
If your flight is delayed or cancelled due to reasons within the airline’s control, you could be entitled to up to 600€ per passenger in compensation.

Flight disruption? Here’s how EC 261 can help you

To get compensation under EC 261, it’s important to be aware of your rights and understand the legal process involved. That’s where AirClaimExperts can assist. Our legal experts can guide you every step of the way. With our Air Compensator tool (LINK), you can quickly check your flight issue and find out what compensation you might be eligible for.

Our legal experts can guide you every step of the way.

Which flights are covered by European laws?

EC 261 applies to many flights within and connected to Europe, covering routes in EU airspace and certain nearby regions. If your flight disruption involves a covered flight, it may be eligible for compensation even if it’s just part of your overall journey.
You can check whether your flight is covered using our Air Compensator tool (LINK).

Extraordinary events: when airlines aren’t liable

EC 261 offers compensation for many types of disruptions, but there are some situations where airlines are not responsible. Known as ‘extraordinary circumstances’, these include events
like extreme weather, political unrest, strikes, or security risks. In such cases, airlines are not obligated to provide compensation.

More than just compensation: other rights under EC 261

EC 261 doesn’t only provide compensation. It also ensures passengers are entitled to other benefits such as:

• Being informed of their rights;
• The option for a refund or an alternative flight when delays are excessive;
• Care and assistance during delays, including meals and accommodation.

For example, if you’re offered a replacement flight, the airline can’t charge you extra if the new seat is in a higher class, and they must refund you if it’s in a lower class.

Compensation time limits: deadlines vary by country

Different EU countries have different deadlines for filing compensation claims under EC 261. It’s essential to know that these deadlines are set by the location of the airline’s headquarters or the court with jurisdiction, not your nationality.

For instance, in Czechia, you need to notify the airline within six months of the flight issue, and your claim will remain valid for three years. In Germany, the claim deadline ends on the last day of the third year, while in Sweden, the airline must be informed within two months, but claims can be pursued for up to ten years.

Additional compensation: your rights don’t stop at EC 261

It’s important to remember that compensation under EC 261 doesn’t limit your right to seek further damages. If you’ve suffered additional losses due to flight disruptions, you can still pursue further compensation, unless you voluntarily gave up your seat or reservation.
However, any payout you receive under EC 261 will be deducted from other compensation amounts awarded to you.

Always know your rights

In conclusion, as an air passenger, you are entitled to fair treatment and compensation when your journey doesn’t go as planned.
Air travel can be complex, but with the right guidance from organisations like AirClaimExperts, you can navigate these challenges and make sure you claim what you’re owed.

Bon voyage!