How to Claim Compensations for Delayed Flights in Europe

One of the worst things that could happen while traveling is to have a delayed flight. This can mess up all sorts of plans whether you are needing to be somewhere for an important convention or connecting your flight to get to your final destination. Flying is already stressful so when a delayed flight is added to that equation, it could put a real damper on your trip.

Did you know that when flying around the EU, you might be eligible to claim compensation for your delayed flight? While this might not fix your immediate problems, it is a great thing to know in case you are needing to buy an emergency flight in order to continue your travel plans. So let’s talk all about how to claim compensation for delayed flights in Europe!

 

Steps to claim compensation for delayed flights in Europe

 

The most important thing to know is that YOU need to be the one who puts in your claim. No airline is just going to offer you money and if you don’t start the process immediately, you might have some difficulties claiming all the funds that you are eligible for.

You also need to be aware of your expectations. Filing this claim on your own can take a few months until you receive your compensation so patience is key.

First and foremost, you need to report your complaint to the airline. You can do this by filling out the Air Passenger Rights EU Complaint Form. The form itself is self-explanatory and shouldn’t take you too long to fill out. After you have completed the form, you want to submit it to the airline from which your flight was delayed. You will need to either mail it, fax it, or even email it if the specific airline accepts complaints that way.

If you haven’t received a response within two months or you are not happy with the response you got from the airline, it is time to escalate your complaint. You will want to send a copy of your original complaint form plus an additional description to the National Enforcement Body located in the country that the delay happened.

You will need to tell the National Enforcement Body your reasoning for escalating your situation; whether you didn’t receive a response or don’t agree with the outcome.

Lastly, if all the above measures fail, you can take the airline to the European Small Claims Court. You can submit your claim to the Small Claims Court located in the departure or arrival destination, or in the established country of the airline.

 

What are the rules in Europe?

 

European Air Passenger rights favor the passengers and are quite extensive. Any flights within or departing Europe; regardless if the airline is an EU or Non-EU company; are applicable. Flights that arrive into Europe from a European airline only are also included under EU Regulation. All flights that take place outside the EU; even if you are on a European carrier; are not included.

A few different factors go into your compensation but if your flight has been delayed for more than three hours, canceled with short notice, or you have been denied boarding for no reason; then you are most likely eligible for up to 600 Euros. The distance that you are traveling as well as the amount of time that you are delayed will also influence how much you are owed.

There are some specific times where you may face a delay and are still eligible for compensation; these situations are referred to as Extraordinary Circumstances. This can include grounding or delays due to Political unrest, poor and dangerous weather conditions, and security risks.

 

How AirHelp can help

 

Now, after reading through all this information you might be feeling a little bit overwhelmed. A lot of times, passengers aren’t sure if they are eligible for an EU flight compensation or not and don’t want to go through the hassle. If this is you, you could be missing out on a substantial claim. Luckily, now there is AirHelp.

AirHelp is there with you for the whole process. From helping you discover and understand your potential compensation eligibility to taking care of all the confusing paperwork and ensuring you get the best compensation possible. 

AirHelp is an expert on traveler’s rights, especially in Europe where the EU Regulation has considerable passenger rights. They can take all the stress out of the claim for you with their expertise and professionalism. What’s even better is that they can help you in 16 different languages (and growing) so that you can comfortably get the assistance that you need.

 

We hope you never have to experience the lengthy delay of a flight or a last-minute flight cancellation. However, if you are traveling within any of the 27 countries in the EU and find yourself in that situation, you know that Airhelp is there to watch your back. Sit back, enjoy your vacation, and let Airhelp do the work for you to get the compensation that you deserve.