Don’t Let a Missed Connection Cost You – Know Your EU261 Compensation Rights

Don't Let a Missed Connection Cost You - Know Your EU261 Compensation Rights - Calculating the Amount of Compensation You're Entitled To

When your flight is canceled or severely delayed, you may be entitled to compensation under EU261 regulations. But how much can you expect to receive? Here's a quick guide to calculating your potential payout:

For short haul flights under 1500km, compensation is €250 for delays over 3 hours. For longer intra-EU flights between 1500-3500km, it's €400 for delays over 3 hours. And for flights over 3500km, you can claim €600 for delays exceeding 3 hours.

Missed connections also qualify if they cause over 3 hours of delay to your final destination. In this case, the total delay is calculated based on the difference between your originally scheduled arrival time and your actual arrival time after the missed connection.
Be sure to keep all receipts for expenses incurred due to the delay, such as hotel stays, meals, and transportation. These can often be claimed separately on top of the standard EU261 compensation.

What else is in this post?

1. Don't Let a Missed Connection Cost You - Know Your EU261 Compensation Rights - Calculating the Amount of Compensation You're Entitled To
2. Don't Let a Missed Connection Cost You - Know Your EU261 Compensation Rights - What Proof You'll Need to Get Compensated
3. Don't Let a Missed Connection Cost You - Know Your EU261 Compensation Rights - How to Escalate Your Claim If the Airline Refuses to Pay

Don't Let a Missed Connection Cost You - Know Your EU261 Compensation Rights - What Proof You'll Need to Get Compensated

When dealing with EU261 compensation claims, it's crucial to have the right documentation to support your case. The airline will want to see proof of the flight disruption and any expenses you incurred as a result.

First and foremost, you'll need to provide your flight details - the airline, flight number, departure and arrival airports, and dates of travel. This establishes the basis of your claim. You should also obtain a written confirmation from the airline regarding the delay or cancellation. This could be in the form of a letter, email, or printout from the airline's website.
Receipts for any additional expenses, such as hotel stays, meals, or transportation, are essential. The airline is obligated to reimburse you for these "reasonable" costs, so be sure to keep all documentation. For accommodation, a hotel folio or receipt with your name on it is perfect. For meals, itemized restaurant receipts work best. And for transportation, things like taxi, bus, or train tickets can be used.
If your flight resulted in a missed connection, be prepared to provide details on your entire itinerary, including the connecting flight information. The airline will need to verify the length of your total delay to determine the appropriate compensation amount.
In cases where the airline claims "extraordinary circumstances" to avoid paying, you may need to dig deeper. Research the specific event that caused the disruption and gather any news reports or official statements that contradict the airline's stance. This helps strengthen your case.

Don't Let a Missed Connection Cost You - Know Your EU261 Compensation Rights - How to Escalate Your Claim If the Airline Refuses to Pay

Despite having the proper documentation and proof of your case, airlines don't always cooperate when it comes to EU261 compensation claims. If you find yourself in a stalemate with the airline, there are steps you can take to escalate the situation and increase your chances of receiving the compensation you're entitled to.
First, don't accept the airline's initial denial at face value. Carefully review their reasoning and see if you can poke holes in their argument. If they claim "extraordinary circumstances" prevented them from operating the flight on time, research the specific event they're citing and look for evidence that contradicts their position. News reports, official statements, and other publicly available information can be invaluable in building your case.
If the airline remains unwilling to budge, your next step should be to file a formal complaint. Most airlines have a dedicated customer service team or ombudsman that handles compensation claims. Clearly outline the details of your situation, reference the relevant EU261 regulations, and reiterate your request for the full compensation amount. Be persistent, as airlines often hope frustrated passengers will simply give up.
Should the airline continue to deny your claim, it's time to take your case to the next level. Contact the National Enforcement Body (NEB) in the country where the flight departed or arrived. These government agencies are tasked with ensuring airlines comply with EU261, and they have the power to intervene on your behalf. Provide the NEB with all your supporting documentation, and they will investigate the matter further.
In some instances, even the NEB may be unable to persuade the airline to pay out. When that happens, your final recourse is to take legal action. Consider hiring a lawyer or consumer rights organization that specializes in air passenger rights. They can assist you in filing a claim with the small claims court or an alternative dispute resolution service. While this route requires more time and effort, a successful lawsuit can result in the full compensation amount plus additional damages.