Your rights if you’re stuck abroad due to flight delays including compensation

What happens if you get stranded abroad because of flight delays and cancellations – including your refund rights and what compensation you’re entitled to

There’s been plenty of travel chaos for families heading on holidays this half term, as both airlines and airports struggle to cope during peak holiday seasons.

The likes of Manchester Airport and Bristol Airport have been hit by huge queues and delays, while airlines including easyJet and British Airways have been cancelling flights. Meanwhile, TUI has announced further cancellations from Manchester until the end of June.

There are plenty factors behind why airports are struggling, but Covid staff shortages and the effects of the pandemic on the travel industry in general mean that it’s not just UK firms and airports where there are delays to be found; European airports including Amsterdam and Majorca have also seen some large queues.

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So, what happens if you’re hit with delays while abroad?

The good news is that you are covered when you’re in Europe, as rules for UK airlines and European airlines do apply when you’re flying back to the UK.

Your airline and travel firm will be able to help you find a solution – so although it’s stressful, don’t panic. There are steps to minimise the stress, especially if your holiday is ABTA or ATOL protected.

We take a look at some of the first steps to take below.

Speak to your tour operator or airline

When an airline cancels your flight, you’re entitled to a refund, rebooking on an alternative flight or vouchers. Of course when you’re heading home, that second option will be your preferred one.

In this case, your airline must find you a different flight. This can be as soon as possible after the cancelled flight (and could be with a different airline if necessary), or a later date that suits you.

You are still entitled to care and assistance – for example food and drink vouchers, or accommodation if the delay requires an overnight stay. Sometimes airlines won’t be able to provide this – in which case keep any receipts for any food, drink or hotels (within reasonable spending) so you can claim back later.

(With some delays you are entitled to compensation – more on this later).

If an airline isn’t able to rebook you onto a flight, speak to your tour operator as they should help you find an alternative.

Get in touch with your travel insurance provider

Get in touch with your insurance provider as soon as possible, so you’re clear on what your policy covers.

For example, travel disruption insurance compensates you if your trip is delayed or disrupted, and can cover the likes of your flights and accommodation.

If the worst-case scenario happens and you need to stay abroad an extra couple of nights, keep any receipts for costs including accommodation, food, drink and transport. Speak to your insurer and double check what you’re covered for so you don’t face any extra nasty surprises.

Refund rights and compensation for delayed flights

If your flight is delayed, you may be entitled to compensation depending on how long the delay lasted, and the length/duration of your flight.

The Civil Aviation Authority says that you are entitled to compensation for the following:

• Short-haul flight of under 1,500km – £220 if you wait more than two hours
• Medium-haul flight of 1,500km – 3,500km – £350 if you wait more than three hours
• Long-haul flight of over 3,500km £520 if you wait more than four hours (if it’s under four hours then you may be entitled to £260)

Airlines should provide you with food and drink vouchers for longer waits, and if necessary accommodation (for example if a flight is delayed until the next day.

The CAA does warn: “Sometimes airlines are unable to arrange care and assistance for all passengers. This can happen when staff are stretched during major disruptions.

“If this happens, in our view you have the right to organise reasonable care and assistance yourself, then claim the cost back later. If you end up paying for things yourself, keep every receipt and do not spend more than is reasonable. Airlines are unlikely to refund you for things like luxury hotels or alcohol. Some will provide guidance on reasonable costs.”

You can find out more on caa.co.uk.

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