The Ultimate Guide to EU Flight Compensation: Know Your Rights (& How to Claim!)

Introduction

Travel disruptions like flight delays, cancellations, or overbookings can turn a dream trip into a nightmare. Fortunately, the EU Regulation 261/2004 protects passengers flying within, to, or from the European Union. This guide breaks down your rights, eligibility criteria, and step-by-step claiming procedures to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

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1. Understanding Your Rights Under EU Regulation 261/2004

The regulation covers flights:

• Departing from an EU airport (regardless of airline).
• Arriving in the EU on an EU-based airline (e.g., Lufthansa, Air France).

Compensation applies for:

• Delays: 3+ hours at arrival.
• Cancellations: Less than 14 days’ notice.
• Denied boarding: Due to overbooking.

Compensation amounts (per passenger):

• €250 for flights ≤1,500 km.
• €400 for flights 1,500–3,500 km or intra-EU flights >1,500 km.
• €600 for flights >3,500 km.

Exceptions: Airlines avoid payouts if disruptions are caused by “extraordinary circumstances” (e.g., severe weather, strikes).

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2. How to Claim Compensation

Step 1: Gather Evidence

• Boarding passes, tickets, and baggage tags.
• Photos/videos of departure boards showing delay times.
• Written confirmation from airline staff about the disruption.

Step 2: Submit a Formal Claim

Option A: Directly to the Airline

• Email the airline’s customer service with evidence and a demand letter (templates available online).
• Include: Flight details, disruption type, and compensation amount owed.

Option B: Via a Claims Agency

• Services like AirHelp or ClaimCompass handle claims for a fee (25–35% of compensation).

Step 3: Escalate if Denied

• File a complaint with the National Enforcement Body (NEB) in the airline’s home country.
• Small claims court (for EU residents) is a last resort.

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3. Pro Tips for Success

• Act fast: Claims are valid for up to 3 years (varies by country).
• Be persistent: Airlines often reject first claims hoping passengers give up.
• Check eligibility: Use free online tools (e.g., EU’s official flight compensation calculator).

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4. Real-Life Examples

• Case 1: A KLM flight from Amsterdam to Rome delayed 4 hours → €250 compensation.
• Case 2: Ryanair cancels a London-Barcelona flight with 10 days’ notice → €400 per passenger.

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Conclusion

Don’t let airlines dismiss your rights. Armed with this guide, you’re ready to navigate the claims process confidently. Safe travels—and may your next flight be on time!