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Do you get compensation if a flight is delayed by bad weather?

Weather removes compensation, not care.

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Short answer

Bad weather is one of the extraordinary circumstances that free the airline from paying compensation of EUR 250 to 600. Other examples are manufacturing defects in the aircraft and air traffic control restrictions. You still have the right to food and drink while you wait and to a hotel if you must stay overnight. If the flight is cancelled, you can always choose between a refund and a new flight.

Transport and mobility

Why

  1. Weather is outside the airline's control.
  2. Care at the airport still applies.
  3. Refund or rerouting still applies on cancellation.

Details

Consequential losses, such as an unused rental car or a lost hotel night at your destination, are generally not covered.

Tip

Ask the airline in writing what caused the delay, so you can judge if a claim is worth making.

What may differ

Whether a specific weather event counts as extraordinary is judged case by case.

Common misconception

If the airline blames the weather, you have no rights at all.

What actually happens

Bad weather only removes the right to compensation, not the right to care, a refund or a new flight.

People also ask

  • What does the airline owe you while you wait for a delayed flight?
  • What are your rights if your flight is cancelled?
  • Where do you complain about an airline in Denmark?

Sources

This answer is for reference only. Timetables, routes and fares change, so check the operator before you travel.

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