EU Flight Delay Compensation and Airline Duty‑of‑Care Guidelines

Under EU Regulation 261/2004, passengers on flights that arrive three hours or more late are entitled to monetary compensation—up to €250 for short‑haul, €400 for medium‑haul and €600 for long‑haul journeys—provided the delay is within the airline’s control and not caused by extraordinary circumstances. In addition to cash payouts, airlines must provide a duty of care, which can include meals, refreshments, hotel accommodation for overnight delays, transport between the airport and hotel, and re‑booking on the next available flight.

Travelers are advised to confirm the cause of any disruption, keep all documentation such as boarding passes, e‑ticket confirmations and receipts, and request assistance promptly. Claim deadlines vary by country and can span several years, so retaining evidence is essential. Services like Lennuabi can help passengers navigate the eligibility criteria, prepare documentation and liaise with airlines to secure reimbursement or compensation.