FLIGHT DELAY: KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
1. You were notified less than 5 hours before departure
2. You were notified in advance, but you haven’t gone to the airport yet
FLIGHT DELAY: KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
1. You were notified less than 5 hours before departure
If you are already at the airport:
– Even if the delay was announced in advance, it still qualifies as a delay.
– You are entitled to standard assistance, including:
• drinking water
• meals
• means of communication
• hotel accommodation and transfer if necessary
– The airline is obligated to provide these services.
2. You were notified in advance, but you haven’t gone to the airport yet
In this case, no compensation is provided, if:
– you did not suffer physically (i.e., you didn’t spend hours waiting at the airport);
– and you had the opportunity to adjust your plans (for example, leave later).
However, if the new departure time is not suitable for you, you have the right to:
– cancel the flight and receive a full refund;
– or choose an alternative flight with the same airline.
SUMMARY: SITUATIONS AND YOUR RIGHTS
| Situation | What You Are Entitled To |
|---|---|
| Flight delayed, you are already at airport | Assistance: water, food, communication, hotel, and transfer |
| Flight delayed, you are still at home | Refund or alternative if the new flight doesn’t suit you |
| Delay less than 2 hours | Usually nothing, if no time was spent waiting at the airport |
