Flight Compensation: Passenger Rights and Protections

IMPORTANT TO KNOW
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When travelling by plane, there may be situations where flights are delayed, cancelled or passengers are not allowed to board the plane.  

In such cases, passengers are protected by the European Parliament and Council Regulation (EC) No. 261/2004, which establishes the rules for compensation and assistance to passengers. In the event of unforeseen circumstances, it is important to know where to turn and who is eligible for compensation.

Compensation is available to all passengers whose flight meets the following conditions:

  • Departure from an airport in an EU country or arrival at an EU airport if the flight is operated by an EU airline.
  • The flight is delayed for more than 3 hours, cancelled, or the passenger is denied boarding due to the airline (e.g., overbooked flight).
  • The passenger has a valid ticket and arrives on time at check-in.

The amount of compensation payable depends on the distance of the flight:

  • EUR 250 for flights up to 1500 km.
  • EUR 400 for flights between 1500 km and 3500 km.
  • EUR 600 for flights longer than 3500 km.

It is important to note that airlines are not obliged to pay compensation if the delay or cancellation is due to special circumstances such as extreme weather conditions, strikes or security threats.
Passengers are also entitled to certain additional services:

  • If a flight is delayed for more than 2 hours, passengers must be provided with food and drinks.
  • If the delay lasts overnight, the airline must provide hotel accommodation and transport to the hotel.
  • If the flight is cancelled, the passenger can choose between a refund of the ticket price or an alternative route.

Everyone expects a smooth journey, but unforeseen events often occur, so it is important to know your rights. Passengers should do the following to obtain compensation:

  • Collect all relevant documents: tickets, check-in confirmations, baggage receipts.
  • Contact the airline with a formal claim.
  • If the airline refuses to compensate, you can contact the national enforcement authorities. In Lithuania, you can file a complaint with the State Consumer Rights Protection Authority (SCPAT) or through independent companies that can help you recover compensation for a fee.
  • Alternatively, if you order through Tagoo, you can opt for our partner Skycop's assistance service, which speeds up the refund procedure.

Travelling can be adventurous, but it's important to know your rights and not be afraid to stand up for them. If you've experienced flight delays or cancellations, don't give up - claim what's rightfully yours. If you make a proper claim, the airline must compensate you for the inconvenience and losses you have suffered.

Tagoo wishes you pleasant flights!

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