Dealing with a delayed or cancelled flight can be a stressful experience, disrupting your travel plans and potentially leading to significant inconveniences. However, knowing the appropriate steps to take immediately after such disruptions can help you manage the situation more effectively. Companies like Flightright specialise in assisting passengers to understand their rights and claim compensation in these scenarios. Here’s a guide on what to do if your flight is delayed or cancelled.
Step 1: Stay Informed
The first step is to gather as much information as possible about the delay or cancellation. Communicate with the airline’s customer service representatives present at the airport. Most airlines will announce the reasons for the delay and the expected departure time.
Step 2: Understand Your Rights
Passengers departing from a UK airport, or flying to the UK from a non-UK airport on an EU/EEA or UK air carrier, as well as passengers flying to the EU/EEA from a non-EU/EEA airport on a UK air carrier, are protected under UK261 Regulation. This provides rights to passengers in cases of delays and cancellations. These rights include:
- Right to Information: Airlines must inform you about the cause of the delay or cancellation.
- Right to Care: For delays of two hours or more, airlines should provide meals, refreshments, and accommodation if an overnight stay is necessary, as well as transport between the airport and the hotel.
- Right to Rerouting or Refund: You can choose between a full refund of your ticket or alternative transportation to your final destination.
- Right to Compensation: Depending on the duration of the delay and the flight distance, you may be entitled to compensation unless the delay was caused by extraordinary circumstances.
Step 3: Collect Documentation
If your flight is delayed or cancelled, start collecting all necessary documentation, including:
- Boarding passes and tickets
- Booking confirmation
- Receipts for any additional expenses (meals, accommodation)
- Evidence of the delay (photos of the departure board, communication from the airline)
These documents are crucial for filing a compensation claim.
Step 4: File for Compensation
If you are eligible for compensation, contact the airline to initiate the claims process. Provide all the relevant documentation and be clear and concise in your communication. If the airline does not respond satisfactorily, you can escalate your claim through national enforcement bodies or use services like Flightright, which can take legal steps on your behalf.
Step 5: Make Alternative Arrangements
If you opt for rerouting instead of a refund, speak to the airline about the next available flights. If you are not at your home airport, consider booking a hotel room if the airline does not provide accommodation. Keep receipts of all your expenses, as you may be able to claim them back from the airline.
Step 6: Review Travel Insurance
Check your travel insurance policy for coverage related to delays and cancellations. Some policies offer additional compensation for delays, lost bookings, or extra expenses incurred during travel disruptions.
Conclusion
While a delayed or cancelled flight can significantly alter your plans, taking these steps can help relieve the stress and inconvenience caused. Stay informed, understand your rights, collect the necessary documentation, and seek expert help as needed.