You may find yourself facing unexpected issues such as a delayed flight or, even worse, a canceled flight, due to ordinary or extraordinary circumstances. Here we explain how to handle a canceled or delayed flight and in which cases you can request a refund.
Canceled Flight: What to Do
If your flight is canceled at the last minute, even after a long wait at the airport, you may be entitled to compensation ranging from €250 to €600 (the amount depends on the length of your journey). The compensation for a canceled flight must be claimed within a certain period, which in Italy is 2 years. Bad weather or disruptions often cause cancellations: while initial frustration is understandable, compensation can help offset the inconvenience.
Generally, compensation is €250 for journeys up to 1,500 km, €400 for those between 1,500 and 3,000 km, and €600 for longer distances. Refund regulations for canceled flights can vary depending on the airline. For example, if your Ryanair flight is canceled, you are entitled to a full refund or a free alternative flight. The same applies to easyJet and Alitalia, while for Vueling compensation follows the standard fare bands calculated by distance.
According to the Air Passenger Rights Charter, if you have to wait, you are entitled to services such as meals, hotel accommodation, transport between the hotel and airport, and a number of phone calls.
A different process applies if your flight is canceled due to exceptional circumstances such as a terrorist attack, radar or communication failures, or sudden strikes. In these cases, you can obtain a ticket refund but not additional compensation. No compensation is paid if flights are canceled weeks in advance and you are informed with enough time to adjust your booking.
Delayed Flight
You may also experience significant delays. Once again, what to do depends on the situation. You can get a refund for delayed flights only if the departure delay exceeds five hours and you decide not to travel. If the airline provides an alternative flight, the delay compensation may be reduced by as much as 50%. If the delay is between 2 and 5 hours, you are entitled to hotel accommodation plus food and drinks.
There are cases where you are not entitled to compensation: for example, if delays result from severe weather or safety issues at the airport. If you do meet the requirements for financial compensation, the standard amounts correspond to those for cancellations, except for the €600 rate, which applies only if the distance exceeds 3,500 km.
Whether you travel for business or vacation, it’s crucial to know how to respond in these situations. Unexpected events can happen; the key is to stay informed so you can act appropriately. Airlines are generally helpful in resolving issues and minimizing disruptions.
