FLIGHT DELAY IN TURKEY — KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
FLIGHT DELAY IN TURKEY — KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
If your flight is within Turkey or departing from Turkey to an international destination, the regulations of the Turkish Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) apply. Here is a clear breakdown of what you are entitled to when your flight is delayed:
IF THE DELAY IS 2 HOURS OR MORE
The airline is required to provide:
• Drinking water
• Access to restrooms
• Regular updates on the flight status
IF THE DELAY IS BETWEEN 3 AND 5 HOURS
You are entitled to:
• Complimentary meals and refreshments
• The ability to make a phone call or send a message
IF THE DELAY EXCEEDS 5 HOURS
You have the right to:
• Cancel your trip and request a full refund of your ticket
• Or wait for the delayed flight — in this case, the airline must provide meals, and if needed, hotel accommodation and ground transportation
IF THE FLIGHT IS RESCHEDULED TO THE NEXT DAY
The airline must:
• Cover hotel accommodation
• Provide transportation to and from the hotel
• Offer meals, including dinner and breakfast
WHAT TO DO:
- Contact an airline representative at the airport
- Document the delay and request an official confirmation
- Keep all travel documents, including your ticket and boarding pass
- File an official complaint with the airline via their website or by registered mail
- No response? Escalate the issue by contacting the DGCA or using platforms like AirHelp or Skycop
IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER:
• If you purchased your ticket through a third-party website (such as Aviasales, Kiwi, etc.), your complaint should still be submitted directly to the airline, not the intermediary
• Flying on a charter flight? Your rights still apply, but specific conditions may vary — check with the operating airline for details
