I don’t know about you, but whenever I see the ‘delayed’ sign flashing in bright red next to my flight information, I always feel like it’s mocking me. Like, okay, I get it – my flight is delayed, I won’t reach my destination on time, and now I’m going to be stuck at their airport for countless more hours, hungry and not to mention tired! I mean, for all this inconvenience, surely there’s something the airlines can do for me in return, right? You’re right, there is! But here the thing, most airlines don’t want you to know they can compensate you for a delayed flight. Unlucky for them, I’m here to spill the beans for you. So, keep reading to find out what some of the most popular airlines out there offer as compensation for delayed flight.
Also read: A Full List Of All Free Things You Can Do At The Dubai Airport
1. Emirates
Emirates provides assistance during delays, including meals, accommodation, and communication services, depending on the length and reason for the delay. However, compensation policies may vary based on the specific circumstances and local regulations.
2. Etihad Airways
Etihad offers support during delays, such as refreshments, meals, and hotel accommodations when necessary. Compensation eligibility depends on the cause of the delay and applicable laws.
3. Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways assists passengers during delays with services like meals and accommodations. Compensation is considered based on the reason for the delay and relevant regulations of the country the delay took place in.
4. Fly Dubai
Fly Dubai provides necessary assistance during delays, including refreshments and accommodations. Compensation policies depend on the nature of the delay and governing laws of the country the delay took place in.
5. Air Arabia
Air Arabia ensures passengers are informed about delays via email and SMS. If the airline cannot provide a flight to your selected destination, you’re entitled to request a ticket refund.
6. Air India
Air India offers assistance during delays, such as meals and accommodations. Compensation is provided in accordance with India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) guidelines, depending on the duration and cause of the delay.
7. IndiGo
IndiGo provides support during delays, including refreshments and hotel stays when necessary. Compensation is determined based on DGCA regulations and the specifics of the delay.
8. British Airways
British Airways passengers are protected under UK law, which mandates compensation for delays over 3 hours, unless caused by extraordinary circumstances like extreme weather.
9. Turkish Airlines
Turkish Airlines offers assistance during delays, including meals and accommodations. Compensation eligibility is assessed based on the cause of the delay and applicable international regulations.
10. Cathay Pacific
Cathay Pacific provides support during delays, such as refreshments and hotel accommodations. Compensation is considered depending on the reason for the delay and governing laws of the country the delay took place in.
11. Singapore Airlines
Singapore Airlines assists passengers during delays with services like meals and accommodations. Compensation policies are determined based on the nature of the delay and relevant regulations of the country the delay took place in..
12. Air Canada
Under Canadian regulations, Air Canada passengers are entitled to compensation for delays over 3 hours caused by reasons within the airline’s control. The compensation amounts are:
- $400 CAD (AED 794) for delays between 3 and 6 hours
- $700 CAD (AED 1,854) for delays between 6 and 9 hours
- $1,000 CAD (AED 2,648) for delays over 9 hours
Additionally, Air Canada must provide meals, accommodations, and communication services during significant delays.
Steps To Claim Your Compensation
- Document Everything: Keep records of your flight details, boarding passes, and any communication from the airline regarding the delay.
- Understand Your Rights: Familiarise yourself with the airline’s compensation policy and relevant regulations in your departure or arrival country.
- Contact the Airline: Reach out to the airline’s customer service to inquire about compensation.
- Submit a Claim: If eligible, file a formal compensation claim through the airline’s official channels.
- Follow Up: If you don’t receive a response within a reasonable timeframe, persistently follow up or escalate the matter to aviation authorities or consumer protection agencies.
Remember, while delays are inconvenient, knowing your rights and the proper steps can help you receive the compensation you deserve. Safe travels!
