4 Things to do When Your Flight is Delayed or Cancelled

Your flight can be delayed or cancelled due to several reasons and it has become a common occurrence lately, especially with the COVID-19 pandemic. However, agencies like Flightright are constantly putting in the work to ensure passengers are treated right and compensated when necessary. You could get monetary compensation if your flight is delayed or cancelled unjustly. So, what do you do when you find yourself in such a situation?

Know the Reason Behind the Disruption

For every flight disruption, there should be a reason and this will tell you the next steps to take. Whether it is due to an adverse weather condition, air traffic control restrictions, unavailable crew members, or a global pandemic, you should be aware. Usually, airlines would indicate the reason for the delay or cancellation in the notification they send out. But if you were not notified or the reason was not explicitly stated, you can contact the airline directly to know why. If the reason is within the airline’s control, you may be eligible for monetary compensation under the EU 261/2004 regulation. 

Know Your Rights as an Air Passenger

The EU 261/2004 regulation applies to passengers flying from an EU member state or arriving at one with an airline headquartered in the EU. This law protects passengers and makes them entitled to compensation of up to €600. This law only applies if you have a valid booking ticket and the reason for the delay or cancellation was within the airline’s control. This is why you should seek to know the reason, as it will help you while filing a compensation claim. 

If your flight is delayed, you are entitled to the right of care under the law. The airline is expected to provide you with free meals and refreshments and also a hotel booking if you have to wait overnight. If you missed your connecting flight as a result of the disruption, you are entitled to monetary compensation and should be able to reschedule the flight. In addition, you also have the right to be informed of your rights before flying any airline. 

Understanding your rights on both domestic and international flights will make it easier for you to get compensated properly for any inconvenience caused. 

Get Compensated

It is one thing to know your rights and it is another to exercise your rights. Many people tend to ignore the compensation because they believe it is a long haul. However, this isn’t always the case and you truly can never know until you try. 

Start by gathering all relevant documents, including receipts from purchases made as a result of the delay or cancellation. Then, contact the airline via their helpline, email address, or a form on their website. If the process proves too difficult for you, contact a lawyer or go through an agency like Flightright. 

Don’t Let It Ruin Your Journey

Flight disruptions can be frustrating but you can still make the best of your journey regardless. If it’s a delayed flight, request meals and refreshments while you wait. If the flight is cancelled, work on rescheduling while you ensure the airline pays for the inconvenience caused.

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