If you have ever had to deal with a flight cancellation, you would know how frustrating it can be, especially if you’re already at the airport. No one wants to be faced with this after having a perfect travel plan and spending long nights packing a suitcase. Unfortunately, flight cancellations happen more often than you think, but you as the passenger shouldn’t have to suffer for it.
If your flight has ever been cancelled or you’re currently dealing with one, here’s a quick guide on what to do.
Table of Contents
1. Know your rights
It’s not cool when you’re stuck at the airport, whiling away time when you could have been doing something better. The flight regulation compensation, also known as the EU 261/2004 regulation protects you in times like this. Under this law, each passenger is entitled to compensation between €250 – €600. The airline must also provide you with food and drinks and hotel accommodation if you have to spend the night at the airport due to the cancellation. The airline should have informed you of any possible flight disruption at least 14 days before departure. So, even if you were informed before the departure date, you can still claim compensation if it was less than 14 days.
2. Speak to an agent
After confirming the flight cancellation, request to speak to an airline agent. This will be the best time to know the cause of the cancellation. There are several reasons why a flight could get cancelled but if it is due to extraordinary circumstances, i.e beyond the airline’s control, then you may not be entitled to compensation. More often than not, the airline is responsible, so feel free to request to know why, as it is within your rights. You can also find out more about the flight and the rescheduling options, including how to get a refund if you’re not interested in rescheduling.
Also Read: Flight Hacks That Will Boost Your Flying Experience
3. Get compensated
The EC 261 law already protects you against severe flight disruptions. Gather all relevant documents such as your valid travel ID, electronic ticket and booking confirmation, vouchers, receipts, boarding pass, and any other document that can come in handy. Contact the airline or visit their website for any available compensation form. You can also speak to your travel agency or hire an attorney to help with the process.
4. Research other flights
Since you have to go on that trip regardless, you can start checking for seats on other flights. Most times, the airlines would give you a rescheduled flight but not everyone has that luxury of time to wait. Look for other available flights travelling within the same day, so you can get your travel plans going without any further delay.
Bottom Line
Getting your flight cancelled can ruin your itinerary, but you can rise from the situation and make the most of it. This article provides a quick guide on the most important things you can do. It’s okay to get upset, but you can also channel that energy into ensuring the airline pays its dues and compensates you properly.
