How far back can you claim flight compensation?

Claiming Flight Compensation: Time Limits and Eligibility

When faced with flight delays or cancellations, it is essential to be aware of your rights to compensation. In the European Union (EU), regulations provide passengers with a generous six-year window to claim damages for such disruptions.

Six-Year Time Limit

According to EU Regulation 261/2004, passengers have up to six years from the scheduled departure time of their flight to file a compensation claim. This means that even if you have not noticed the delay or cancellation immediately, you still have ample time to seek compensation.

Eligibility Requirements

While the six-year time limit applies to all disrupted flights, certain eligibility requirements must be met to qualify for compensation. These include:

• The flight must be operated by an EU airline or an airline based in an EU country.
• The disruption must occur within the EU.
• The flight delay or cancellation must be due to extraordinary circumstances beyond the airline’s control, such as weather conditions or security incidents.
• You must have a valid boarding pass and proof of the delay or cancellation.

How to Claim Compensation

To claim compensation, you can contact the airline directly or use a third-party claims service. The process typically involves submitting a claim form with the necessary supporting documents. If your claim is successful, you may receive compensation ranging from €250 to €600, depending on the distance and duration of the delay.

Importance of Acting Promptly

While you have six years to file a compensation claim, it is advisable to act promptly. The airline may have better records and evidence available closer to the date of the disruption. Additionally, waiting too long could result in lost or misplaced documentation, potentially weakening your claim.

Conclusion

If you have experienced a flight delay or cancellation, remember that you have up to six years to claim compensation under EU regulations. By being aware of your rights and acting within this timeframe, you can potentially recover your losses and ensure that airlines are held accountable for disruptions beyond their control.