You’re Not Always Entitled to Compensation: When Airlines Are Not Liable
Flight delays and cancellations can be frustrating. However, not every situation automatically qualifies for financial compensation. Let's look closer at when airlines are not obligated to compensate you.
When Are You Not Eligible for Compensation for a Delayed Flight?
✔ The delay was caused by extraordinary circumstances beyond the airline's control, such as:
- sudden severe weather conditions (storms, fog, strong winds),
- natural disasters,
- strikes by airport staff or air traffic controllers,
- civil unrest, violence, or terrorist attacks at the departure or arrival location.
✔ The delay at the final destination was less than three hours.
For example, if your scheduled arrival was at 13:00 but you landed at 15:59, you are not eligible for compensation under EU Regulation No. 261/2004.
✔ The airline is not registered in the European Union.
In such cases, EU passenger rights regulations do not apply.
When Are You Not Eligible for Compensation for a Cancelled Flight?
You are not entitled to compensation if:
✔ The cancellation was due to extraordinary circumstances beyond the airline’s control (e.g., bad weather, natural disaster, strike, security issues).
✔ The airline is not registered in an EU member state.
✔ The airline informed you about the cancellation in advance:
- at least 14 days before the scheduled departure, or
- 7 to 14 days before, offering an alternative flight departing no more than 2 hours earlier than the original, or
- less than 7 days before, offering an alternative flight departing no more than 1 hour earlier than planned.
Not Sure About Your Rights?
If you’re unsure whether you qualify for compensation, don't worry — we’re here to help.
Quickly check your flight through our platform. If you're entitled to compensation, we'll take care of everything on your behalf, risk-free and with a human touch.
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