Flights have always been infamous for being frequently late, with the average delay in 2023 being around 15 minutes. Very often, while inconvenient, these delays are still manageable. The problem is that sometimes, these delays can go way longer, passing the three-hour threshold.
The difference between these two is that while 15 minutes is easy to wait through, a flight delayed 3 hours, or more is an entirely different story. Very few people know that they are entitled to compensation when this happens. In this article, you will find out more about what you should do if you get stuck at the airport for 3 hours.
Understanding Your Rights
As a passenger from the EU or other countries that get flights to and from these areas, you are protected by the EU Passenger Rights Regulation. Also referred to as the EC 261/2004, this bill clearly states that if your flight is delayed by 3 hours, then you are entitled to compensation.
If you exit the plane at your destination 3 hours later than you should have, the law says that you should be entitled to the following:
- 250 EUR for flights shorter than 1,500 km
- 400 EUR for flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km
- 600 EUR for flights longer than 3,500 km
A delay longer than 3 hours also gives you the right to comfort benefits, such as meals, drinks, or lodging (if you are staying overnight). It’s especially the case if you are on an international flight and are expected to fly longer distances.
Bear in mind that airlines are not interested in initiating these payments, so you should use a professional company to claim flight delay. This way, you will be sure to get your due compensation.
When Can You Claim Flight Delay?
A flight delayed 3 hours often makes you eligible for compensation, but there has to be a “fault and effect” system. For instance, compensation is provided if the delay was caused by something the airline could have predicted or managed, such as technical problems or airline staff shortage. If it was under the airline’s control, you can seek compensation for being late for your arrangements.
“Extraordinary circumstances” such as a terrorist attack, a strike of airport personnel, or severe weather might not entitle you to compensation. However, you’ll have to make sure those circumstances were indeed “extraordinary.” Aircraft are technically designed to fly through a storm without getting any damage, so delays caused by your average thunderstorm should not be an excuse. This is why you should seek professional help, as they can use their resources to find out if an airline is truthful.
One thing to keep in mind is that a delay is only labeled as such once you arrive at the final destination. In other words, if you wait 3 hours at the departing airport but manage to reach your destination with just a 2-hour delay, you might not be entitled to this compensation. Once you get off the plane at your destination, that’s the moment the clock starts.
Steps to Take in Case of Delay
Should your flight be delayed by 3 hours or longer upon arrival, air passenger rights state that you can file for compensation. The steps include the following:
1. Gather Your Documentation
Your travel documents serve as proof that you were on board or were supposed to get on a certain plane. Make sure to have your passport, tickets, boarding pass, pictures of the Arrivals and Departures board, and every other document that could serve as proof of the delay.
2. Get More Information
The next thing you should do is find out why your flight was delayed in the first place. Perhaps there was a malfunction with the aircraft that prevented you from boarding (or getting off) the plane. If you can get an official statement from airline professionals, you can significantly strengthen your case. The same applies if you have witnesses.
3. File Your Complaint
You have all your data in check, so now you need to make it official. Your best bet is to file through a company specializing in international flight delay compensation. Airlines have a way of finding loopholes to squeeze through when giving compensation, and these companies can help you make the most of your compensation amount.
4. Get Your Comfort Rights
Just because you are planning to get compensation, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t use the amenities the airport provides. You’ve been sitting at the airport or on the plane for hours, you’re tired and hungry, and you didn’t sign up for this wait. If you hit the 3-hour mark and there’s no chance of boarding, the airline should offer complimentary meals and drink vouchers. It won’t affect you later when you file for compensation; under EC 261/2004, they should provide these services.
5. Stay Updated
Once the delay has been announced, you might want to keep updated on new developments. For example, you might be tempted to go to the lounge and grab a quick rest once they announce a 3-hour delay, but things can change with time. For instance, they may board you on a different plane, or the issue might be fixed sooner than anticipated. By leaving, you risk becoming a “no show,” which takes away your right to compensation (even if you are still late).
6. Wait for the Results
Depending on the complexity of your case, it might take a couple of days or weeks until you get the results of your complaint. When you claim flight delay, there is a good chance they’ll try to give you the minimum amount. If you are not happy with the sum you receive, you can collaborate with the flight compensation company to bring the case to court, bringing you the compensation you deserve.
The Bottom Line
As you can see, if your flight is three hours late, you have the right to seek international flight delay compensation. By gathering the data and filing a complaint, you can get up to 600 EUR for your discomfort. And if you choose to work with a professional flight compensation company, you’ll get your money much faster.
