How much of a flight delay does it take to get compensation?

Delays, Compensation, and the Arrival Time Quandary

In the realm of air travel, the dreaded flight delay can often leave passengers feeling stranded and frustrated. But did you know that the time of the delay can have a significant impact on your eligibility for compensation?

Contrary to popular belief, flight compensation revolves around the arrival time of your flight, not the departure time. If your flight arrives at its destination three or more hours late, you are entitled to compensation from the airline. This is true even if the delay was caused by factors beyond their control, such as weather or technical issues.

However, if the departure of your flight is delayed but you arrive within three hours of the scheduled arrival time, you are not eligible for compensation. This means that airlines have some leeway when it comes to making up for delays during the journey.

Understanding Flight Compensation

The amount of compensation you receive depends on the distance of your flight and the length of the delay:

• Flights within the EU:
  • 1,500 kilometers or less: €250
  • 1,500-3,500 kilometers: €400
  • Over 3,500 kilometers: €600
• Flights outside the EU:
  • 0-2,500 kilometers: €300
  • 2,500-4,500 kilometers: €500
  • Over 4,500 kilometers: €700

Exceptions to the Rule

There are some exceptions to the arrival time rule for flight compensation:

• Extraordinary circumstances: If the delay is caused by an extraordinary circumstance beyond the airline’s control, such as a natural disaster or security incident, you may not be eligible for compensation.
• Alternative transportation: If the airline offers you alternative transportation that arrives at a similar time to the original flight, you may not be entitled to compensation.

Knowing Your Rights

Understanding your rights when it comes to flight delays is essential for navigating the compensation process. If you believe your flight was delayed by three hours or more, you should contact the airline to file a claim. They must provide you with a written explanation of your eligibility for compensation within a reasonable time frame.

记住，航班补偿取决于到达时间，而不是出发时间。如果您对延迟时间或您的权利有任何疑问，请联系您的航空公司或相关航空监管机构。