Flight delay claim happen more frequently than many would like it to be, but that it how it is. The planes experience technical difficulties, the operations on the ground may not always flow smoothly, the passengers could have a medical emergency, the weather may not cooperate, and so forth. Delays are detrimental to the passenger’s plans. These bring discomfort, hunger, fatigue, and financial stress. Airlines may be required to provide compensation at various levels depending on the length of the delay. Passengers may also file a claim by themselves or with the help of industry experts. The following will determine the merit of the claim:

Origin, Destination, and Airline

Each jurisdiction has its own way of dealing with flight claims for delays and cancellations. You will have to consult the relevant laws in order to see what your right are. The three most important things to consider are the flight’s origin, destination, and airline. For example, the compensation laws in the European Union may apply if you departed from an EU country or used the services of an airline that is registered within the EU. In the case of EU airlines, it may not even matter when you are coming from.

Delay Definition

Just because the flight left the terminal later than scheduled does not mean that the delay merits compensation. The time difference needs to be long enough in relation to the flight distance. For example, UK passengers will have to check if the delay is more than 2 hours for a flight that is projected to be less than 1,500 kilometers. It should be more than 3 hours if over 1,500km and within the EU. A similar timeframe is imposed for flights between 1,500km and 3,500km from EU country to a non-EU country, and vice versa. If the flight is more than 3,500km, then the delay must be more than 4 hours to qualify for compensation.

Passenger Rights

Airlines need to take care of their affected passengers by giving them food, drink, access to phone calls, and access to the Internet at the bare minimum. Those who are delayed overnight may also get free accommodations at a nearby hotel. The airline should also take care of the transportation from the airport to the hotel, and back again.

If these things were not given, then a passenger may file a flight delay claim. Delays of 3 or more hours entitle passengers to compensation as long as the reason behind them are within the airline’s control.