EU rights for air passengers

Since 2004, the rights of air passengers have been protected under EU Regulation 261/2004. This regulation applies in cases of flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding due to overbooking.

When does the regulation apply?

  • if your flight departs from an airport within the EU

  • if your flight arrives in the EU from a non-EU country and is operated by an EU airline

In addition, one of the following must apply:

  • your flight is delayed by more than three hours

  • your flight is cancelled shortly before departure

  • you are denied boarding due to overbooking

  • your flight schedule changes significantly within 14 days of departure

What are you entitled to at the airport?

If your flight is delayed, the airline must provide assistance such as food, drinks, and two phone calls. For longer delays, hotel accommodation and transport between the airport and the hotel must also be arranged.

These services are usually offered as vouchers. If you are not given any, you may submit a claim to the airline afterwards.

Please note that compensation does not apply in cases of extraordinary circumstances beyond the airline's control, such as severe weather, strikes by third parties (for example, air traffic control), or medical emergency landings.

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