If you ever have your flight delayed or cancelled, what do you do next? Any frequent traveller can tell you how unpleasant this is, and many travellers do not seem to be aware of their rights. This has led to the rise of companies like Skycop, helping passengers fight for their rights. You could get compensated for a disrupted flight that the airline is responsible for. Should you ever find yourself in such a situation, this article will guide you on the next steps to take.
1. Wait for a Notification
Most often than not, the airline will notify you of any delay or cancellation ahead of time. This will be via your email address or telephone number provided to the airline at the point of ticket purchase. Airlines are expected to notify passengers at most 14 days to the day of departure of any changes in their flight schedule. If you’re being notified in less than 14 days, you may be entitled to some form of compensation.
Always check your emails and SMS for any notifications and especially note when it was sent. Most times, the notification contains further details such as a rescheduled date and time and if you will be placed on a different flight. All these will guide you on the next steps to take. If you’ve already checked in before being notified, then you can help yourself with complimentary food and drinks provided by the airline as you wait.
2. Find Out the Reason for the Flight Disruption
There are several reasons why your flight might be delayed or cancelled. Whether it is the aircraft not ready to fly, the absence of pilot and crew, security or mechanical issues, bad weather conditions, and bird strikes, among others. Whatever the reason might be, you are within your right to find out why. You can also request to have this reason in writing, as it can come in handy when you want to request compensation.
3. Know the Flight Compensation Regulation
The flight compensation regulation is referred to as the EU 261 regulation passed in 2004 to protect the rights of air passengers. So, whether your flight got delayed or cancelled, you missed your connecting flight as a result of a delay, or you were denied boarding, this law covers you. Under this regulation, you may be entitled to monetary compensation of up to €600. You may also be entitled to basic services such as access to telephone and internet, complimentary food and drinks, and a free hotel booking if you have to spend the night at the airport.
Take Action
As long as the reason for the flight delay or cancellation is within the airline’s control, you have every right to request compensation in European law. Start by gathering all relevant documents and fill out their compensation form, which will likely be on their website. You may also request directly from them, as the law obligates them to inform you of your rights. In addition, hiring an attorney or getting companies like Skycop involved can make the process easier.
He is a computer engineer by day and a gamer by night. He has played many different games, like retro games like Contra, classic Mario, to AAA games. He likes to share his passion for gaming through his guides.