If your flight is cancelled or delayed in Europe, EU law protects you. Here is what you need to know, explained simply.
Which flights are covered by EU passenger rights?
EU passenger rights apply if your flight departs from the EU, or arrives in the EU with an EU airline (This also includes Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland.)
My flight was cancelled. What am I entitled to?
You must be offered either a full refund, or a replacement flight to your destination. You may also be entitled to financial compensation.
How much compensation can I receive?
If the airline is responsible:
- €250 – flights up to 1,500 km
- €400 – medium-distance flights
- €600 – long-haul flights (over 3,500 km)
When is compensation not paid?
- You were informed 14 days or more before departure
- You were offered a similar flight at a similar time
- The disruption was caused by extraordinary circumstances
(severe weather, security risks, air traffic control strikes)
⚠️ Technical problems are usually NOT considered extraordinary therefore compensation should still be considered. This comes from EU case law but many passengers don’t realise.
My flight was delayed. Do I still have rights?
Yes. If you arrive more than 3 hours late, you may be entitled to the same compensation as a cancelled flight, unless extraordinary circumstances apply.
What assistance must the airline provide during a delay?
The airline must provide:
- Food and drinks
- Two phone calls, emails, or messages
- Hotel accommodation and transport if an overnight stay is required
If the airline does not provide this, keep receipts — you can claim the costs back.
Can I get a refund if the delay is very long?
Yes. If your flight is delayed 5 hours or more and you choose not to travel, you are entitled to:
- A full ticket refund, and
- A return flight to your original departure point (if applicable)
What about overbooking (denied boarding)?
If you are refused boarding due to overbooking and did not volunteer, you are entitled to compensation. You must also be offered a refund or replacement flight and the airline must provide assistance (food, hotel if needed)
How do I claim compensation?
Compensation is not automatic. You must contact the airline directly, and provide booking details and documents. Make sure you keep copies of all correspondence. You generally have up to 5 years to make a claim for EU flights (time limits vary by country).
What if the airline refuses or ignores my claim?
First, try the airline’s customer service. If there is no response after 2 months, contact the Tourism and Travel Mediator
⚠️ From 7 February 2026, mediation is mandatory before taking court action in France.
What if I cancel my flight myself?
This depends on your ticket conditions and any travel insurance you may have. Even without insurance, you can usually claim back some airport taxes from the airline.