Did you know that you might be entitled to compensation when your flight is delayed or cancelled? Not everyone knows this yet! A few years ago the European Union signed a new law that outlines the regulation with regard to airline compensation. This law is called the flight compensation regulation 261/2004. A summary of the compensation rules:

Next to this compensation by EU law you are entitled to get reimbursed for costs you made such as refreshments, drinks and meals as well as hotel accommodation for overnight delays.

You are not entitled to the EU compensation if the cancelation or delay is caused by extraordinary circumstances such as:
– Weather related (hurricanes, snow etc.)
– Strikes by air traffic control
– Emergencies at the airport (such as terrorist attack or closure on behalf of the government)
In case of extraordinary circumstances you are however still entitled to compensation for refreshments, drinks, meals and hotels.

In most other situations, such as technical issues with the plane, you are still entitled to this compensation! Always try to claim the compensation you are entitled to! I would suggest you to claim it in this order in order to maximize your compensation:
– First claim it with the airline directly on their website with the claim form.
– If the airline denies your claim try to send a more official letter and mention the EU regulation law 261/2004.
– If you happen to have legal insurance (Dutch: rechtsbijstandsverzekering) call them up and let them submit the claim for you (mostly included in your insurance package)
– Your last resort would be to use a claim company, they work on a no cure no pay commision basis and often charge you 30% of the compensation.

Good luck with your compensation