Have you ever been delayed at an airport or had your flight cancelled while travelling in Europe?
Usually, when a flight is delayed, most passengers just wait until the plane is ready for boarding. When flights are cancelled, most people try and find the next best flight that suits them. But passengers have rights, even on short delays, which they are not always informed of.
In countries belonging to the European Union, all of these rights are stated in EU legislation under Passenger Rights by-law (EG) Nr. 261/2004 and apply if at least one flight leaves from an airport within the European Union. This means that even if you travel from somewhere in Europe to anywhere else in the world, the flight leaving a European city is still covered by these laws and guidelines.
Entitlements for flight delays
Refreshment vouchers should be handed out by airport staff but have to be asked for most of the time. If your flight is delayed and you don't receive vouchers, make sure you keep all the receipts for food you purchase during the delay.
If you're delayed overnight, or are left stranded somewhere because your flight got cancelled, the airline has to reimburse you for hotel costs incurred. Ask the hotel for a detailed receipt that lists all expenses. Some airlines do not reimburse hotels you couldn't use because of a cancellation. Do not rely solely on the airline to find accommodation.
If you have to stay at a hotel due to a flight delay or cancellation, the airport transfer should be reimbursed. Keep hold of all receipts and remember to ask for a receipt if you use a taxi.