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Flight delays and cancellations can ruin your travel plans. The good news is you might be eligible for flight delay compensation or flight cancellation compensation. Let’s understand how to claim your rights in a simple way.

What Is Flight Delay or Cancellation Compensation?

When airlines delay or cancel your flight, they may owe you compensation for delayed flight or compensation for cancelled flight under certain conditions. This depends on the reason for disruption and the laws in your region.

Why Do Airlines Pay Compensation?

Airlines have to take responsibility if they cause long delays or cancellations not linked to weather or security. This is to protect passengers from losing money, time, or other bookings.

Tip: Always check if your flight falls under US DOT or EU261 regulations to know your exact compensation rights.

When Can You Claim Flight Delay Compensation?

You can claim flight delay compensation if:

• Your flight was delayed for 3 hours or more (EU flights).

• The delay was due to the airline’s fault, like technical or crew issues.

• You checked in on time and had a confirmed booking.

How Much Can You Get for a Delayed Flight?

The amount varies by distance and region. For example:

• EU flights: €250 to €600 depending on flight distance.

• US flights: Compensation depends on airline policies unless it's due to overbooking.

Need help? AirlineHelp is here for you! Call us at 800-594-4991 (OTA), and let our team find the best solution for you!

When Can You Claim Flight Cancellation Compensation?

You can claim flight cancellation compensation if:

• The airline cancelled your flight less than 14 days before departure (EU flights).

• The cancellation was not caused by extraordinary events like severe weather.

• The airline did not offer an alternative flight that arrives at a similar time.

Tip: Always keep your booking confirmation, boarding pass, and communication records for a smooth claim process.

How Much Can You Get for a Cancelled Flight?

Just like delayed flights, the compensation for a cancelled flight under EU261 can be:

• €250 for flights up to 1500 km

• €400 for flights between 1500 km and 3500 km

• €600 for flights over 3500 km

US airlines do not pay set compensation for cancellations unless it’s related to denied boarding or overbooking. They usually offer refunds or rebooking options.

How to Claim Compensation for Delayed Flight or Cancelled Flight

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Check Your Eligibility

Read your airline’s policy. For EU flights, check EC261 rules. For US flights, check DOT rules and the airline’s Contract of Carriage.

2. Collect All Documents

Keep these ready:

• Flight booking details

• Boarding pass or e-ticket

• Delay or cancellation notification

• Any receipts if you spent on food, hotels, or transport

Tip: Always ask the airline staff for a written reason for the delay or cancellation. This helps in claims.

3. Submit a Claim to the Airline

Visit the airline’s website, find their claims section, and fill out the form with your documents. Some airlines take weeks to respond.

Need faster help? AirlineHelp can guide you through the claims process. Call us at 800-594-4991 (OTA) today!

4. Contact A Third-Party Service If Needed

If the airline rejects your claim without a valid reason, approach third-party services like AirlineHelp to assist you in getting your compensation for delayed flight or compensation for cancelled flight.

Common Reasons Airlines Reject Compensation Claims

Airlines may deny claims if:

• Delay or cancellation was due to weather or air traffic control.

• Passengers checked in late.

• The airline informed passengers about cancellation over 14 days in advance.

Tip: Always read your airline’s Contract of Carriage before traveling.

What to Do If Your Claim Is Denied?

1. Recheck Eligibility

Go through the airline’s reason for denial and cross-check with EU261 or DOT guidelines.

2. Escalate to Authorities

If your claim is valid but rejected, you can contact:

• US DOT Aviation Consumer Protection Division (for US flights)

• National Enforcement Body (NEB) in Europe (for EU flights)

Need help? AirlineHelp is here for you! Call us at 800-594-4991 (OTA) for expert guidance on your case.

Can You Get Refunds Along with Compensation?

Yes, refunds and compensation are different:

• Refund: If your flight is cancelled, you are entitled to a full refund if you don’t wish to take an alternative flight.

• Compensation: Paid in addition to refunds for the inconvenience caused under certain rules.

Tip: Always clarify with your airline whether the offer is a refund, rebooking, or compensation to avoid confusion.

Key Takeaways

✅ Claim flight delay compensation if delayed over 3 hours due to airline fault

✅ Claim flight cancellation compensation if cancelled within 14 days of departure (EU flights)

✅ Keep all documents safe for proof

✅ Check airline and regional policies before claiming

✅ Seek third-party help if your claim is denied without a valid reason

Final Words

Travel disruptions are stressful, but knowing your rights to compensation for delayed flight or compensation for cancelled flight makes it easier to manage.

Need assistance in claiming your rightful compensation? AirlineHelp is here for you. Call us at 800-594-4991 (OTA), and let our team handle the process for you with care and expertise.