Delayed flight : Everything you need to know about the right to compensation for passengers

Flight delays refer to the situation where an aircraft takes off or lands later than the scheduled time indicated on its itinerary. These delays can vary from a few minutes to several hours, and in extreme cases, can even result in the cancellation of a flight.

Several factors can cause delayed flights. Among the most common causes are adverse weather conditions, such as fog, thunderstorms or snowstorms, which can make takeoff or landing dangerous. Another major reason for delay was technical problems with the plane; unscheduled checks and repairs may be necessary to ensure flight safety. Additionally, congested air traffic, particularly at large airports or busy airspace, can lead to delays. Delays may also occur due to airport management issues, such as runway congestion or delays in ground handling services. Finally, factors such as security concerns, airport or airline staff strikes, and even regulatory or political considerations can also contribute to flight delays.

Airplane delays have a significant impact not only on passengers’ travel plans, but also on airline operations and the overall efficiency of air transportation systems.

Passengers stranded at the airport : What are their legitimate rights ?

Faced with the inconveniences caused by flight delays, it is essential that passengers are well informed of their rights, particularly with regard to the accommodations offered at the airport during these waiting periods. Regulations vary by region or country, but generally, once a flight delay exceeds two hours, specific assistance measures are put in place for travelers. These measures usually include the provision of drinks and meals, appropriate to the length of the delay. Additionally, it is common for airlines to offer free communication options, such as phone calls or email access.

For delays extending over long hours, or even into the next day, airlines may also have an obligation to provide accommodation to passengers, as well as corresponding transportation between the airport and the place of accommodation.

A major breakthrough : Air passenger rights under law 261/2004 CE

There is no denying that flight delays can cause significant inconvenience to passengers, taking up their valuable time and disrupting their travel plans. In a society where every minute counts, time lost waiting at the airport or on a delayed plane has acquired a monetary value. This is precisely what European Union legislation, such as Law 261/2004 EC, has recognized and addressed.

Since the establishment of this directive by the European Parliament, the lives of air passengers have undergone significant changes in their favor. This regulation marked a major step forward in the protection of travelers’ rights, by establishing a set of guarantees and compensation in the event of flight disruptions.

The directive provides financial compensation for passengers facing substantial delays (greater than 3 hours).

A progressive compensation scale guaranteeing fair compensation to injured passengers

The compensation awarded to passengers is proportional to the duration of the journey. For example, for short flights, compensation of 250 euros can be paid, while for long trips this amount increases.

€250 : For short flights, up to 1500 kilometers

€400 : For medium distance flights, ranging from 1500 to 3500 kilometers

€600 : For long-distance flights, beyond 3,500 kilometers

Exception to the compensation rule : Cases without compensation

European legislation, notably Law 261/2004 EC, clearly sets out the rights of air passengers in the event of flight delays, cancellations or denied boarding. However, it should be noted that there is one exception to this compensation rule, namely the “force majeure” clause. This provision is of vital importance because it takes into account exceptional circumstances beyond the control of airlines.

Force majeure encompasses unforeseeable and unavoidable events, such as extreme weather conditions, airport staff strikes, security issues, acts of terrorism, and other similar situations. In such circumstances, airlines are not required to pay compensation to passengers, as they cannot anticipate or control these extraordinary events.