Claiming Compensation From Airlines

Claiming Compensation from Airlines: Your Rights Under EU261European passenger rights legislation known as EU261, introduced by the European Commission, entitles passengers to claim between £200 – £500 per person in compensation unless the airline can prove it was not to blame for a delay.

What Qualifies for Compensation?You may be entitled to compensation if your flight was:

• Delayed over 3 hours at your final destination
• Cancelled without adequate notice
• Overbooked and you were denied boarding

When Airlines Are ResponsibleAirlines must pay compensation when delays or cancellations are within their control, including:

• Inadequate staffing
• Overbooking flights
• Technical problems with aircraft
• Crew scheduling issues

Exceptions: Airlines are not liable for "extraordinary circumstances" such as:

• Political unrest or security threats
• Severe weather conditions
• Air traffic control strikes
• Medical emergencies

Compensation AmountsThe amount you can claim depends on your flight distance:

• Short flights (under 1,500km): €250 (approximately £200)
• Medium flights (1,500-3,500km): €400 (approximately £350)
• Long flights (over 3,500km): €600 (approximately £500)

Time Limits for ClaimsImportant: The claim is valid for tickets purchased up to 6 years ago for flights delayed over 3 hours or cancelled as per the criteria above.

Landmark Legal ChangesSince October 2012, there have been huge flight delay compensation successes following a landmark ruling by the European Court of Justice. The ruling clarified that passengers were entitled to compensation for long delays (as long as they met the set criteria above).

Passengers are taking advantage of these new rules on flight delays and cancellations, and with some compensation amounts significantly exceeding the price paid for the flight initially, it's clear that we live in an age of growing 'compensation culture'.

Additional RightsBeyond monetary compensation, you're also entitled to:

• Care and assistance: Meals, refreshments, and accommodation if needed
• Communication: Free phone calls, emails, or fax messages
• Refunds or re-routing: Full ticket refund or alternative flights

How to Make a Claim

1. Keep all travel documents and receipts
2. Document the delay or cancellation
3. Ask the airline for compensation directly first
4. If refused, seek legal assistance

Expert Flight Compensation SupportAt Douglas Wemyss Solicitors we can help you get the compensation you are entitled to. Contact us today for a FREE assessment of your situation on: 0116 2999 199 or email us at: info@d-w-s.co.uk