Rights of Airline Passengers: Delays and Cancellations Guide

Know your rights to compensation, refunds, and care under EU, UK, and US laws.

Flight disruptions are more than just an inconvenience; they can be financially draining. Whether you are flying within Europe, across the Atlantic, or domestically in the US, there are specific laws like EU 261/2004 and the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 that protect you.

1. Flights in the EU and UK (EC 261/2004)

The European Union has the strongest passenger protection laws in the world. These rules apply if your flight departs from an EU/UK airport or arrives in the EU/UK on an EU/UK-based airline.

Compensation for Delays

If you arrive at your final destination more than 3 hours late, and the delay was within the airline's control (e.g., technical fault, crew scheduling), you are entitled to cash compensation:

Flight Distance	Delay Time	Compensation
Up to 1,500 km	3+ hours	€250 / £220
1,500 km – 3,500 km	3+ hours	€400 / £350
Over 3,500 km	4+ hours	€600 / £520

Important: "Extraordinary circumstances" such as extreme weather, air traffic control strikes, or security risks usually exempt airlines from paying compensation. However, technical faults are NOT considered extraordinary.

2. New US Passenger Rights (2024/2025 Updates)

As of late 2024, the US Department of Transportation (DOT) has implemented stricter rules regarding automatic refunds.

• Significant Delays: If your flight is delayed by more than 3 hours (domestic) or 6 hours (international), and you choose not to travel, you are entitled to a full cash refund—not just a voucher.
• Cancellations: If the airline cancels your flight for any reason, they must offer a refund automatically if you don't accept rebooking.
• Baggage Fees: If your bag is significantly delayed (over 12-15 hours), you are entitled to a refund of your checked bag fee.

The "Right to Care"

Regardless of the cause of the delay (even weather), if you are delayed for a significant amount of time (usually 2+ hours in the EU), the airline must provide:

• Food and drink vouchers.
• Access to communication (emails/calls).
• Hotel accommodation if the delay is overnight, including transport to the hotel.

3. Flight Cancellations: Your 3 Options

When an airline cancels your flight, they are legally required to offer you a choice between:

1. Full Refund: A cash refund for the unused part of the ticket.
2. Rerouting: A replacement flight to your destination as soon as possible.
3. Later Date: Rerouting at a later date of your convenience (subject to seat availability).

How to Claim Your Compensation

Don't let the airlines ignore you. Follow these steps to ensure you get paid:

• Keep your boarding pass: This is your primary proof of travel.
• Ask for the reason: Ask airline staff to write down why the flight was delayed or cancelled.
• Collect receipts: If you have to buy your own food or book a hotel because the airline didn't help, keep every receipt.
• Submit a formal claim: Use the airline’s official website or a legal service like Keshilla Ligjore to file your demand.

Need help with a rejected claim?

Airlines often reject valid claims hoping passengers will give up. Our experts can help you navigate the legal paperwork.

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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes and covers general regulations (EC 261/2004, UK261, and US DOT rules). Specific cases may vary based on ticket type and airline policy.