Know Your Passenger Rights
Understanding Regulation (EC) No 261/2004 and what you are entitled to when flights go wrong.
If you have travelled from a European airport, or arrived in Europe on a European airline, you are protected by strong consumer laws. The EU Regulation 261/2004 establishes common rules on compensation and assistance to passengers in the event of denied boarding and of cancellation or long delay of flights.
How much compensation can I get?
| Flight Distance | Example Route | Compensation |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 1,500 km | London - Paris | €250 |
| 1,500 km - 3,500 km | Berlin - Tenerife | €400 |
| More than 3,500 km | Madrid - New York | €600 |
When are you eligible?
Flight Delay
You arrive at your final destination more than 3 hours later than scheduled.
Cancellation
The airline cancelled your flight with less than 14 days notice before departure.
Denied Boarding
You were bumped from the flight due to overbooking, despite checking in on time.
Missed Connection
A delay on your first flight caused you to miss a connection booked on the same ticket.
What is NOT covered?
Airlines do not have to pay if the disruption was caused by "Extraordinary Circumstances." These include:
- Severe weather conditions (e.g., storms, heavy snow)
- Air Traffic Control restrictions
- Political instability or security risks
- Strikes by airport staff (not airline staff)
- Bird strikes
Your "Right to Care"
Regardless of the reason for the delay (even if it's bad weather), the airline must provide you with assistance if you are waiting at the airport. This kicks in after 2 hours for short flights.