What is the two hour rule for flights?

The Two-Hour Rule: A Lifeline for Delayed Passengers

In the realm of air travel, delays are an inevitable annoyance. However, what happens when those delays stretch beyond a certain threshold? Enter the two-hour rule, a beacon of hope for beleaguered passengers.

The two-hour rule is a regulation enacted by various airlines around the world. It stipulates that if a flight is delayed by two hours or more, passengers are entitled to compensation. This compensation can take various forms, depending on the airline and the payment method used.

Compensation Entitlements

When a delay triggers the two-hour rule, passengers can expect to receive compensation in the following manners:

• Cash or Credit: Some airlines offer direct cash payments or credits towards future flights. The amount of compensation varies, with larger sums typically awarded for longer delays.

• Meals and Refreshments: To mitigate the inconvenience, airlines may provide passengers with vouchers for meals or refreshments while they wait.

• Accommodation: If the delay extends overnight, airlines are often obligated to arrange accommodation for affected passengers.

• Compensation Under EC Regulation 261: For flights departing from or arriving in the European Union, passengers may be entitled to additional compensation under EC Regulation 261. This regulation outlines specific compensation amounts based on the flight distance and delay duration.

Processing Times

The processing time for compensation claims under the two-hour rule can vary depending on the ticketing platform used.

• Directly with the Airline: Claims filed directly with the airline may be processed more quickly, as there are fewer intermediaries involved.

• Through Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): OTAs act as middlemen between passengers and airlines. Claims filed through OTAs may take longer to process due to additional communication steps.

Documentation

To file a compensation claim under the two-hour rule, passengers must provide the following documentation:

• Boarding pass: This serves as proof of the flight and the original scheduled departure time.

• Flight information: Details of the delay, including the departure time, scheduled arrival time, and actual arrival time.

• Payment information: If applicable, passengers must provide their bank account or credit card details for compensation payments.

The two-hour rule is a significant passenger protection measure that ensures that airlines are held accountable for excessive delays. It provides passengers with a degree of compensation and assistance to alleviate the inconvenience and stress caused by unforeseen circumstances.

By being aware of this rule and its implications, passengers can confidently assert their rights and seek fair compensation when their flights are delayed beyond the designated two-hour threshold.