How much is EU261 compensation per passenger?

EU261 Compensation: Understanding Your Rights and Entitlements

EU Regulation 261/2004 (EU261), established in 2004, is a comprehensive set of rules designed to protect the rights of air passengers traveling within the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA). This regulation outlines specific compensation amounts that airlines must pay to passengers in the event of flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding.

Understanding EU261 Compensation

EU261 compensation is standardized across the EU and EEA, ensuring that all passengers receive the same level of compensation regardless of their nationality or the airline they are flying with. The amount of compensation you are entitled to under EU261 depends on several factors, including the distance of your flight and the length of the delay or cancellation.

Compensation Amounts

EU261 compensation amounts are as follows:

• Flights up to 1,500km: €250
• Flights between 1,500km and 3,500km: €400
• Flights over 3,500km outside the EU: €600

To determine the distance of your flight, EU261 considers the scheduled arrival and departure airports, not the actual distance flown.

Exemptions

While EU261 provides clear compensation guidelines, there are a few exceptions where airlines are not obligated to provide compensation. These include:

• Extraordinary circumstances: Situations beyond the airlines control, such as severe weather, security risks, or political instability.
• Short delays: Delays of less than 2 hours for flights up to 1,500km, less than 3 hours for flights between 1,500km and 3,500km, and less than 4 hours for flights over 3,500km.

Claiming EU261 Compensation

If you have experienced a flight delay, cancellation, or denied boarding that qualifies for EU261 compensation, you should submit a claim to the airline. You can typically do this through the airlines website, customer service phone number, or by mail.

Documentation Required

When submitting a claim, you will need to provide supporting documentation, such as:

• Your boarding pass or e-ticket
• Flight confirmation or booking reference
• Evidence of the delay, cancellation, or denied boarding (e.g., emails, text messages)

Time Limits

You have up to 3 years from the date of your flight to file an EU261 compensation claim. It is important to note that some airlines may have shorter claim periods, so it is best to submit your claim as soon as possible.

Conclusion

EU261 compensation is a valuable protection for air passengers traveling within the EU and EEA. By understanding your rights and entitlements under this regulation, you can ensure that you receive fair compensation for any flight disruptions you may experience. Remember to document your experience, submit a claim promptly, and familiarize yourself with the exemptions that may apply.