Flight delays are frustrating—but did you know you might be entitled to compensation, meals, or even hotel stays? Depending on where you’re flying and the length of the delay, your rights vary. Here’s a breakdown of what you’re entitled to when your flight is delayed, and how to claim what’s owed.
1. Know the Rules by Region
Your rights depend heavily on the country or region you’re departing from:
- EU Flights (EC 261/2004): You may be eligible for €250–€600 in compensation for delays over 3 hours on flights to/from Europe.
- US Flights: U.S. law doesn’t mandate delay compensation, but you’re entitled to refunds for significant schedule changes or cancellations.
- Canada (APPR): Passengers may get up to CA$1,000 for major delays caused by the airline.
2. What Airlines Must Provide During Delays
Even if you’re not entitled to cash compensation, many airlines must offer:
- Meal vouchers for delays over 2–3 hours
- Accommodation for overnight delays (especially if the airline is at fault)
- Transport between airport and hotel
3. When Are You Eligible for Compensation?
In general, you’re eligible when the delay is:
- 3+ hours late at arrival (in the EU)
- Not caused by weather or security issues (i.e., airline responsibility)
- Due to overbooking, mechanical failure, or staffing issues
4. How to File a Claim
To get compensated, you can:
- Ask airline staff at the airport
- Use official claim forms on the airline’s website
- Use third-party services like AirHelp or ClaimCompass
5. Keep Your Documents
To support your claim, always keep:
- Your boarding pass
- Flight confirmation email
- Photos or proof of the departure board delay
Tip: Use Aggregators for Schedule Transparency
Platforms like TravellTrade display real-time delay trends and help compare airlines with better reputations for punctuality—so you can avoid future frustrations.
Conclusion
Delays are never fun, but knowing your rights ensures you’re not left stranded without support. Be aware of local regulations, document everything, and don’t hesitate to file a claim. Booking through reliable platforms like TravellTrade also helps ensure transparency and better support when things go wrong.
