Delayed flight?

Not every delay is of legal importance. Minor delays are considered to be acceptable. Generally speaking, the longer the distance of the flight the longer you have to accept to wait. If you experience a considerable delay in departure you already have certain rights at the airport. In case you arrive at your final destination with a delay of more than three hours you have further rights.

If you experience a considerable delay at departure you already have certain rights at the airport.

The airline needs to provide you with detailed information and offer meals and refreshments. Furthermore, you are entitled to two telephone calls, telex, fax messages or e-mails free of charge.

If your alternative flight is to be expected to take off the following day you are entitled to free accommodation and transport between the airport and place of accommodation. If your airline does not take care of you and you suffer additional costs, remember to keep all receipts and contact the ECC in your home country.

However, not every delay is of legal importance such as minor delays (under three hours). If you arrive at your final destination with a delay of more than three hours you have further rights. Generally speaking, the longer the distance of the flight the longer you have to be prepared to wait.

A delay on arrival at final destination is legally relevant if the delay adds up to more than three hours. You may claim compensation from the airline. The amount depends on the length of the flight route. In case of a short-distance flight you may claim 250 EUR, in case of medium-distance 400 EUR and for long-distance flights 600 EUR. Get a written confirmation of the delay at the airport in order to exercise your rights more easily later on.

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