What if flight is delayed by 12 hours?

Passenger Rights in the Event of a 12-Hour Flight Delay

In the unfortunate scenario of a flight delay exceeding 12 hours, passengers are entitled to certain rights and compensation under various regulations. When delays are caused by airline operational failures, such as insufficient bookings or mechanical issues, passengers may be eligible for significant redress.

Compensation Entitlements

Under EU Regulation 261/2004, for delays exceeding three hours due to operational failures, passengers are entitled to the following compensation:

• Short-distance flights (under 1,500km): €250
• Medium-distance flights (1,500-3,500km): €400
• Long-distance flights (over 3,500km): €600

Additional Rights and Assistance

In addition to compensation, passengers are entitled to the following assistance during the delay:

• Meals and refreshments: Adequate meals and drinks, proportionate to the waiting time
• Accommodation: If required, accommodation and transport between the airport and hotel
• Communication: Access to phone calls, email, and internet
• Rebooking or Refund: The choice to be rebooked on an alternative flight or to receive a full refund

Filing a Claim

To file a claim for compensation and assistance, passengers should:

• Contact the airline directly or through their travel agent
• Submit a written complaint within established deadlines
• Provide evidence of the delayed flight, such as the boarding pass or ticket
• Keep receipts for any expenses incurred during the delay

Legal Mandates

The compensation and assistance outlined above are legally mandated in the following circumstances:

• The flight departs from or arrives at an EU airport, regardless of the airline’s nationality
• The delay exceeds three hours and is caused by an airline operational failure
• The passenger has a valid ticket and has checked in on time

It’s important to note that exceptional circumstances, such as extreme weather events or security incidents, may exempt airlines from these obligations. Passengers are advised to familiarize themselves with their rights and the applicable regulations to ensure they receive fair compensation and assistance in case of significant flight delays.