How long do you have to be delayed on a flight to get compensation?

Passenger Compensation Rights for Flight Delays

Delays in air travel can be frustrating and often ruin travel plans. Understanding your rights as a passenger is crucial in ensuring you receive fair treatment and compensation when faced with flight delays.

Compensation Threshold

According to regulations, passengers are entitled to compensation if their flight is delayed by three hours or more and the delay is attributable to the airline. This three-hour mark serves as the threshold for compensation eligibility.

Calculating Flight Delay Duration

It’s important to note that the duration of a flight delay is calculated from the moment the cabin door first opens at the scheduled departure time, not from the time the aircraft takes off or arrives. This means that delays during taxiing or other pre-departure procedures are not included in the calculation.

Compensation Entitlements

Depending on the length of the delay and the distance of the flight, passengers may be entitled to compensation ranging from €250 to €600. The specific amounts are as follows:

• For delays of three hours or more on flights of less than 1,500 kilometers, compensation is €250.
• For delays of three hours or more on flights of 1,500 to 3,500 kilometers, compensation is €400.
• For delays of four hours or more on flights within the European Union (EU) or between the EU and third countries, compensation is €400.
• For delays of five hours or more on flights of more than 3,500 kilometers outside the EU, compensation is €600.

Additional Rights

In addition to compensation, passengers may also be entitled to the following:

• Refreshments and meals commensurate with the delay duration
• Hotel accommodations if the delay occurs overnight
• Alternative transportation if the delay results in a missed flight or connection

Filing a Claim

To file a compensation claim, passengers should contact the airline directly and provide details of the delayed flight, including the flight number, date, and departure and arrival airports. Airlines typically have specific claim forms or procedures in place.

Conclusion

Understanding your passenger rights is essential for ensuring fair treatment and compensation in the event of flight delays. By knowing the three-hour delay threshold and the compensation entitlements, passengers can advocate for their rights and seek reimbursement for any inconvenience caused by airline-attributable delays.