Navigating flight cancellations

Flight cancellations can derail even the most meticulously planned trips. However, it’s important to understand that you may still be entitled to compensation under EU law, even if the airline provides an alternative flight.

This guide aims to help you understand your rights and the steps to take when pursuing compensation for a cancelled flight.

Understanding flight cancellation and compensation under EC 261

According to EC 261, a flight cancellation is defined as the non-operation of a scheduled flight with at least one confirmed reservation. Cancellations can result from various causes, such as adverse weather, security concerns, or operational issues. If your flight is cancelled, you may be eligible for up to €600 in compensation under EC 261, as long as specific conditions are met.

Cancellations can result from various causes, such as adverse weather, security concerns, or operational issues

Bear in mind that a delayed flight is treated differently to a cancellation, though you may still qualify for compensation if you arrive more than three hours late at your final destination. Below are the key conditions that outline when compensation is applicable in cases of cancellation.

Essential conditions for claiming compensation

• You must hold a confirmed booking that includes both a valid flight number and accurate passenger details to qualify for compensation.
• The cancellation must be due to circumstances that are not considered extraordinary or unavoidable, such as operational problems, technical faults, or airline staff strikes.
• The cancellation must have occurred within the last three years, and you must have been notified less than 14 days before the scheduled departure.
• If an alternative flight was provided, the new arrival time must differ significantly from that of the original flight.
• Your flight must have either departed from an EU airport or, in specific cases, been scheduled to land in the EU.

Your options when a flight is cancelled

When a flight is cancelled, the airline must offer you one of three options:

1. A full or partial refund of your ticket.
2. The earliest possible alternative transport to your final destination.
3. Rebooking on a later date of your choosing, subject to availability.

Here’s a detailed look at what each option includes:

Full or partial refund  If you have not started your journey, you are entitled to a full refund. If you have already completed part of your trip, you can request a refund for the unused portion of your ticket, or for the entire cost if the cancellation means the journey no longer serves its original purpose. The airline must also offer a return flight to your point of departure, where applicable, and process refunds within seven days.

Earliest possible alternative transport The airline is required to arrange alternative transport to your final destination at the earliest opportunity, ensuring the travel conditions are similar.

Rebooking for a later date You may choose to take an alternative flight on a later date that suits you, subject to seat availability and comparable conditions. If the airline routes you to a different airport, they must cover the cost of transferring you to the original airport or another agreed location.

Additional benefits under EC 261

A. RIGHT TO CARE
If you are stranded due to a cancelled flight, the airline must provide you with meals, refreshments, and communication access, such as phone calls or emails.

B. OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATION
If the delay forces an overnight stay, the airline must provide you with hotel accommodation and transport to and from the airport.

C. UPGRADING AND DOWNGRADING
If you are placed on an alternative flight, you may be rebooked in a different class. If you are upgraded, the airline cannot charge you any additional fees. If you are downgraded to a lower class, you are entitled to a refund of between 30% and 75% of your original ticket price.

D. OBLIGATION TO INFORM
Airlines are required to display clear information about passengers’ rights at their check-in counters in all airports where they operate.

If you find your claim is being delayed or rejected, AirClaimExperts is here to support you through the process and help you secure the compensation you deserve!