Flight Cancellation Rights Most Passengers Don’t Know

No one likes a flight cancellation. It throws off our plans, causes stress, and results in wasted time and money. But did you know that as a passenger, you have certain rights when it comes to flight cancellations? That’s right – there are laws and regulations in place to protect you and ensure that you are properly compensated for any disruptions to your travel plans. Unfortunately, many passengers are not aware of these rights and end up losing out on potential compensation. In this article, we’ll explore the flight cancellation rights that most passengers are not aware of, and what you can do to protect yourself in case your flight gets cancelled.

What are Flight Cancellation Rights?

As a passenger, your rights are protected by the Montreal Convention, an international treaty that provides a standard set of rules for air travel. Flight cancellation rights fall under the category of Denied Boarding Regulations and are meant to protect passengers in case of flight disruptions, such as cancellations or delays.

Compensation for Flight Cancellations

Under the Denied Boarding Regulations, if your flight is cancelled without proper notice or valid reason, you are entitled to compensation. The amount of compensation varies depending on the distance of your flight and when you were notified of the cancellation. For flights under 1,500 km, the compensation amount is €250, for flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km within the EU, the compensation is €400, and for flights over 3,500 km or between an EU and non-EU airport, the compensation is €600.

If you were informed of the cancellation less than 14 days before your scheduled departure, you may be entitled to an additional 50% of the compensation amount. However, if the airline can prove that the cancellation was caused by extraordinary circumstances, such as bad weather or political unrest, they may not be required to provide compensation.

Refund or Re-routing

In addition to compensation, you also have the right to choose between a refund of your ticket or an alternative flight to your final destination. If you choose to be re-routed, the airline is responsible for providing you with meals, refreshments, and accommodations if necessary, until the next available flight is arranged. The airline is also required to inform you of your rights and provide you with assistance in case of flight cancellations.

How to Protect Yourself in Case of Flight Cancellations

Now that you know your rights as a passenger, here are some tips to help you protect yourself in case of a flight cancellation:

Read the Fine Print

When booking a flight, make sure to read the terms and conditions carefully. This will help you understand the airline’s policies regarding flight cancellations and what you are entitled to in case of a disruption.

Save Your Documentation

In case of a flight cancellation, make sure to hold on to your tickets, boarding passes, and any communication with the airline. These documents will serve as evidence in case you need to make a claim for compensation.

Know the Laws

It’s always a good idea to be familiar with the laws and regulations that govern air travel. This will help you understand your rights and what you are entitled to in case of a flight cancellation.

Be Proactive

If your flight is cancelled, don’t wait for the airline to offer compensation or alternative arrangements. Be proactive and ask for compensation or re-routing as soon as possible. Keep in mind that the airline may try to avoid providing compensation, so it’s important to know your rights and stand your ground.

Conclusion

Flight cancellations are not only an inconvenience, but they can also result in financial and emotional stress. As a passenger, it’s important to be aware of your rights in case of a flight cancellation and take necessary steps to protect yourself. By understanding the laws and regulations, reading the fine print, and being proactive, you can ensure that you are properly compensated and provided with alternative arrangements in case your flight gets cancelled.

Remember, knowledge is power. So, the next time your flight gets cancelled, don’t let the airline push you around. Know your rights, stand your ground, and demand the compensation you are entitled to.