Your Flight Was Delayed — What Are Your Rights?
Flight delays are frustrating — but if you know your rights, the airline is obliged to compensate you. Know what to ask for and when.
You sit at the airport and see the departure board: delayed 3 hours 😩. Most people buy a coffee and sit waiting. But there are guaranteed rights most people don't know about — and the airline won't remind you of them on its own.
A delay of more than two hours generally entitles you to meal vouchers from the airline — go ask the airport staff directly.
In some countries — especially Europe — a long delay or cancellation due to the airline's fault entitles you to cash compensation that can reach 600 euros.
If the delay is the airline's fault — a technical failure for example — your full rights apply. If due to weather or external factors, rights are more limited.
Photograph the departure board, keep the boarding pass, and document any extra expenses you paid because of the delay.
Quick Tips
They won't offer them to you automatically — you have to ask.
The delay board, your boarding pass, receipts — all your evidence for compensation.
Through the airline's official website — written claims are more effective than verbal complaints.
Most airlines don't accept compensation claims after 6 months from the flight date.
Useful Tools
A delay is frustrating no matter what — but when you know your rights, at least it becomes less painful. The airline is obliged, and you're the one with the rights. 💪