Flight disruption recovery
Step-by-step help when something goes wrong. Pick your scenario for the rights, rebooking options, and exact next steps — no airline jargon, no fluff.
Pick your scenario
My flight was cancelled
Get a full refund or rebook for free, plus possible €250–€600 compensation if cancelled less than 14 days before.
My flight is delayed
2+ hour delay: meals and refreshments. 3+ hour delay: up to €600 compensation. 5+ hour delay: full refund option.
I missed my connection
If both flights were on a single ticket, the airline must rebook you. If on separate tickets, you must claim only the delayed segment.
I was denied boarding
Overbooking compensation: €250–€600 plus alternative flight or refund. Volunteer compensation is on top.
My bag is lost or delayed
Up to ~€1500 under Montreal Convention. File a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport before leaving.
My flight was overbooked
You have full EU 261 rights including compensation, alternative flight, and care during the wait.
Universal rules — three things every disrupted passenger should do
-
Get it in writing
Ask the airline counter or app for a written reason for the disruption (text/email/screenshot). Verbal explanations don't help when claiming compensation.
-
Save every receipt
Meals, taxis, hotel — keep all receipts. The airline must reimburse "reasonable" expenses if delay exceeds 2 hours (food) or 5 hours (overnight).
-
File the claim within 6 weeks
Claim time limits vary by country (1–3 years statutory, but airlines often require notice within 2–6 weeks). File ASAP via the airline's website or via AirHelp/Click2Refund.