Storm Éowyn is expected to bring significant travel disruptions on Friday, with Dublin Airport reporting around 90 flight cancellations as of 6 p.m. today. For affected travelers, understanding your rights under EU Regulation 261/2014 is essential. Here’s a breakdown of what you’re entitled to if your flight is cancelled or delayed.
How to Check if Your Flight is Affected
Airlines are responsible for notifying passengers of cancellations or delays through email or SMS. You can also check your flight status via:
- The airline’s website using your booking or flight number.
- Online departures boards for your airport.
Your Rights in Case of Flight Cancellations
If your flight is cancelled, airlines must offer the following options:
- Re-routing:
- As soon as possible, free of charge (subject to availability).
- At a later date, if preferred.
- Refund: A full refund within seven days of the cancellation.
How to Arrange Re-routing or a Refund
Airlines are required to inform passengers of their options during cancellations or delays.
- At the airport, airline staff can guide you through the process.
- For remote notifications, airlines typically provide instructions via email or text message.
- If you booked through a third party (e.g., a travel agent), contact them for assistance.
For self-service, check the airline’s website, which should outline refund and rebooking procedures.
Entitlement to Care and Assistance
If you opt for re-routing as soon as possible, you are entitled to:
- Meals and refreshments.
- Hotel accommodation, including transfers between the airport and hotel, if required.
If these services are not provided by the airline, keep your receipts for reasonable expenses to claim reimbursement. However, excessive costs (e.g., luxury hotels) may not be covered.
What Happens to Accommodation and Other Expenses?
Airlines are not responsible for missed accommodation or other expenses resulting from a cancellation.
- If you booked a package holiday through a travel agent, they may assist in reorganizing your trip.
- Adding travel disruption cover to your travel insurance can also safeguard against such issues.
Compensation for Cancellations
You may be eligible for financial compensation based on the distance of the flight:
- €250 for short-haul flights (under 1,500 km).
- €600 for long-haul flights (over 3,500 km).
Key Notes on Compensation:
- No compensation is due if the airline provides at least two weeks’ notice.
- Partial compensation applies if notice is given 7–14 days before and arrival is delayed by over four hours.
- Full compensation applies if notice is less than seven days and arrival is delayed by over two hours.
However, compensation does not apply if the cancellation is due to extraordinary circumstances, such as a storm. Regardless, passengers are entitled to a refund or re-routing.
Claiming Compensation
Compensation claims are not processed at the airport. Follow these steps:
- Contact the airline directly.
- If unsatisfied, escalate the claim to the National Enforcement Body, such as Ireland’s Commission for Aviation Regulation (01 661-1700; iaa.ie).
What if Your Return Flight is Affected?
For return flights unaffected by the initial disruption, airlines are not obligated to provide care or compensation. However, most airlines aim to assist with refunds or rescheduling. Contact your travel agent or airline for further support.
