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Emergency

Flight delay: when does the airline pay despite excuses?

For major flight delays, passengers are often entitled to flat-rate compensation. Airlines, however, like to invoke 'extraordinary circumstances' to avoid paying. Not every justification holds: it depends precisely on what caused the delay.

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Your chances of getting your money back

In the case of an arrival delay of at least three hours, there is generally an entitlement to flat-rate compensation under the EU air passenger rights regulation (EU-VO 261/2004), graduated by flight distance.
The entitlement lapses in the case of genuine extraordinary circumstances such as severe weather or a strike by airport staff. Technical defects or organizational problems of the airline, on the other hand, usually do not count as extraordinary.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Document the delay

    Record the scheduled and actual arrival times as well as the flight details.

  2. 2

    2. Ask for the reason

    Have the reason for the delay given to you, ideally in writing.

  3. 3

    3. Calculate the claim

    Assess the compensation by distance and delay.

  4. 4

    4. Make your claim

    Ask the airline in writing to pay and set a deadline.

How to spot the scam

  • The airline claims 'extraordinary circumstances' as a blanket statement without proof.
  • A technical defect is presented as force majeure.
  • You settle for a mere voucher.

Frequently asked questions

When am I entitled to compensation for a delay?

In the case of an arrival delay at the destination of at least three hours, there is generally an entitlement to flat-rate compensation under the EU air passenger rights regulation, graduated by distance, regardless of the ticket price. The requirement is that the regulation applies to the flight.

What are extraordinary circumstances?

Events beyond the airline's control, such as severe weather, political instability, or a strike by airport or security staff. Technical defects on the aircraft or staffing problems of the airline usually do not count as extraordinary.

How do I enforce the claim?

Ask the airline in writing, with a deadline, to pay, and state the flight, delay, and claim. If it does not respond or wrongly invokes extraordinary circumstances, you can pursue the claim further. Keep all evidence.

Take action now

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.