EU261 Compensation: Claim Your Flight Delay Rights

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Have you experienced a flight disruption? You might be entitled to EU261 compensation. This regulation protects air passenger rights, ensuring you receive financial compensation for delays, cancellations, and denied boarding.

Understanding EU261

EU261 is a European Union regulation that establishes common rules on compensation and assistance to passengers in the event of denied boarding, flight cancellations, or long delays. It applies to flights departing from an EU airport, or flights arriving in the EU on an EU-operated airline.

Key Scenarios Covered

  • Flight Delays: If your flight arrives at its final destination more than 3 hours late.
  • Flight Cancellations: If your flight is canceled without prior notice (less than 14 days before departure).
  • Denied Boarding: If you are denied boarding against your will (often due to overbooking).

How Much Compensation Can You Claim?

The amount of compensation you can claim under EU261 depends on the distance of your flight:

  • €250: For flights of 1,500km or less.
  • €400: For flights between 1,500km and 3,500km.
  • €600: For flights of more than 3,500km.

Exceptions

Airlines are not obligated to pay compensation if the disruption was caused by extraordinary circumstances which could not have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken. These circumstances include:

  • Political instability
  • Adverse weather conditions
  • Security risks
  • Unexpected flight safety shortcomings

Steps to Claim EU261 Compensation

  1. Gather Evidence: Collect your flight tickets, boarding pass, and any documents related to the disruption (e.g., delay notifications).
  2. Contact the Airline: File a claim directly with the airline. Provide all necessary details and evidence.
  3. Escalate if Necessary: If the airline denies your claim or doesn't respond within a reasonable timeframe (usually 2-3 months), you can escalate the issue to a National Enforcement Body (NEB) or a claims agency.

Tips for a Successful Claim

  • Be Persistent: Airlines may initially reject claims, so don't give up easily.
  • Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with the specifics of EU261.
  • Keep Records: Maintain copies of all correspondence and documents.

EU261 compensation is a valuable right for air passengers. If you've experienced a significant flight disruption, don't hesitate to claim what you're entitled to. [Link to an external resource about EU passenger rights]

Call to Action: Check if you're eligible for compensation today! [Link to a relevant claim assessment tool]