Airline Compensation for Delays and Cancellations
Passenger rights regimes exist in several regions and entitle travellers to care and sometimes cash when flights are delayed or cancelled. They are widely underclaimed.
When rights typically apply
Coverage generally depends on where the flight departs from, and sometimes on where it arrives and which airline operates it.
The rules commonly distinguish delay length, cancellation with or without notice, and denied boarding due to overbooking.
Check the specific regime for your route, since the thresholds and amounts differ.
The two separate entitlements
Care and assistance, which typically applies from a delay threshold and covers meals, communication and accommodation with transfers where an overnight stay is needed. This applies regardless of the cause.
Financial compensation, which typically applies only where the disruption was within the airline's control. Weather, air traffic control strikes and security incidents usually remove the obligation; technical faults and crew shortages usually do not.
The extraordinary circumstances argument
Airlines frequently cite extraordinary circumstances, and the claim is not always correct.
Rulings in several jurisdictions have narrowed the definition, particularly around routine technical failures and staffing.
Where the explanation seems thin, pursue it. Flight tracking data showing the aircraft's earlier movements is frequently informative.
Claiming
Claim directly with the airline first, in writing, quoting the booking reference, flight number, date and the delay length on arrival.
Keep receipts for meals and accommodation, and keep boarding passes.
Where the airline refuses or does not respond, escalate to the relevant regulator or alternative dispute resolution body, which is generally free.
Claims companies take a substantial percentage for work you can do yourself in twenty minutes.
Rerouting
Where a flight is cancelled you are usually entitled to a refund or rerouting at the earliest opportunity, at your choice.
Rerouting can include another carrier, and airlines do not always volunteer this. Ask explicitly.
Do not accept vouchers in place of a cash refund unless you want them, and note that accepting them may end your claim.
General information; rules vary by jurisdiction and change.
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