Sometimes, our flights are delayed or cancelled because of problems which are outside of anyone’s control. It’s a common event to have a flight cancel because a storm has come in which prevents people from flying in safety. However, what a lot of companies do not tell you is that it’s possible to claim compensation when it comes to delayed flights or even flights which have been straight up cancelled, and we’re going to look at the rules regarding them here.
Claiming Compensation – The Rules
The rules surrounding flight compensation are a little subtle because not a lot of companies want you to know that they’ll have to pay out in the event a flight is delayed. Let’s presume for a moment that you’re going from England to Spain, and you’re starting in France. If your flight to England is delayed because of fog or a storm, then you could claim compensation as your flight from England to Spain is thus delayed. Make sense? The weather hasn’t directly influenced or affected the trip from England to Spain, but you could have a good claim for compensation anyway.
If the weather condition is something which is typical of the area you’re trying to get to, then you can claim compensation. For example, heavy snowfall in a place where it snows regularly or somewhere with large quantities of storms are the kinds of situations where you’re viable to claim compensation.
Are There Instances Where I Can’t Claim?
As with all policies regarding compensation, you’ll find that there are certain exceptions to the rules which we’ve talked about. There are certain weather conditions which are deemed ‘unnatural’ and such a rare occurrence that it doesn’t allow you to claim for compensation. These include such things as hurricanes or clouds of volcanic ash which would cause low visibility. Furthermore, if the decision to delay or cancel your flight due to poor weather was made by air traffic control, you have a much more reduced chance of getting compensation.
Your Other Rights And Entitlements
If you are delayed, then the airline in question has a legally binding obligation to grant you individual rights and privileges. If you’ve been delayed for more than two hours while waiting for your flight, then you’re entitled to such things as free foods and drinks, and also two free phone calls to let people know as to what’s gone on. As well as this, an airline has to provide you with free accommodation if your delayed flight means that you’ll be staying overnight in the location you’re trying to leave.
Overall, compensation for delayed flights is possible when you’re experiencing bad weather, but the circumstances have to be specific. You should always make sure you’re aware of the exact reasons why your flight is delayed, as this will help you to figure out whether or not you’ll be getting compensation for your delays. Furthermore, you should also make sure that you get the right amount of compensation for your setbacks, whether it is a money based compensation, or complimentary food and drinks or a hotel room.
