EU Compensation Rules Cover Delays on Europe‑Africa Flights

European Regulation (EU) No 261/2004 guarantees passengers on flights departing from an EU member state or operated by an EU carrier the right to financial compensation when a flight is delayed by three hours or more, cancelled less than 14 days before departure, or when boarding is denied due to overbooking. The compensation amount depends on distance: €250 for trips under 1,500 km, €400 for 1,500‑3,500 km, and €600 for longer routes, regardless of ticket price.

In a recent mediation case, a traveler returning from Tunis to Lyon experienced a 16‑hour delay. After purchasing a replacement ticket for about €1,810, the mediation panel applied the tourism code and ordered a partial reimbursement of €905, citing the airline’s insufficient assistance during the delay.