EU Regulation 261/2004 Guarantees Compensation for Missed Connecting Flights

When a feeder flight is delayed and a passenger misses a connecting flight, EU Regulation (EC) No 261/2004 obliges the airline to provide assistance and possible compensation. Travelers must first approach the airline’s service desk for a re‑booking on the next available flight. The carrier must cover meals after two hours of waiting, provide two free telephone or e‑mail contacts, and, if the replacement departs the next day, supply a hotel room and transport to it. Passengers can claim monetary compensation ranging from €250 to €600, depending on flight distance and total delay, provided the airline is responsible for the disruption. Keeping boarding passes, receipts and written confirmation of the delay is essential for filing a claim.