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As air travel becomes increasingly popular, the issue of flight delays has become a common occurrence. It can be frustrating and inconvenient to have your travel plans disrupted, but did you know that you may be entitled to compensation for these delays? In this comprehensive guide, we will demystify the process of claiming flight delay compensation and introduce you to Compensair, a leading service that can help you navigate this complex process.
Understanding the rights of air passengers
Before diving into the process of claiming flight delay compensation, it is important to understand the rights of air passengers. The European Union Regulation on flight delay compensation has established clear guidelines to protect passengers in the event of flight delays. This regulation applies to all flights departing from an EU airport or arriving at an EU airport on an EU-based airline.
Under this regulation, passengers may be entitled to compensation if their flight is delayed for more than three hours and the delay is within the airline’s control. It is crucial to note that compensation is not dependent on the ticket price or the duration of the delay, but rather on the distance of the flight. Passengers on short-haul flights (less than 1,500 kilometers) can claim up to €250, while those on medium-haul flights (between 1,500 and 3,500 kilometers) can claim up to €400. For long-haul flights (over 3,500 kilometers), passengers can claim up to €600.
The European Union Regulation on flight delay compensation
The European Union Regulation on flight delay compensation was introduced in 2004 to protect air passengers and ensure they are fairly compensated for flight delays. This regulation, also known as EC 261, sets out the rights of passengers and the obligations of airlines in the event of flight delays.
According to the regulation, passengers have the right to care and assistance from the airline in the event of a flight delay. This includes meals, refreshments, and accommodation if necessary. If the delay exceeds five hours, passengers also have the right to choose between a full refund of their ticket or an alternative flight to their final destination.
In addition to these rights, passengers may also be entitled to financial compensation for flight delays. The regulation stipulates that passengers can claim compensation if their flight is delayed for more than three hours and the delay is within the airline’s control. It is important to note that extraordinary circumstances, such as severe weather or security threats, are exempt from compensation.
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