Bad Weather Compensation
Had a flight disrupted by bad weather?
Rules about bad weather compensation claims?
Whilst flights facing cancellations or delays due to severe weather conditions pose big challenges for passengers, bad weather compensation claims are generally unavailable as these instances are deemed “extraordinary circumstances” under EU Regulation No. 261/2004.
Despite airlines lacking control over such unpredictable weather events, passengers do retain specific rights, such as getting assistance with rebooking or refunds.
It is also advised that travellers reference and understand their airline’s policies and review details of their travel insurance coverage in relation to bad weather flight disruption.
Bad weather compensation claims - exemption for airlines
Can I claim if my flight is delayed
due to bad weather?
What actions you should take?
Regulations
In the UK and the EU, there are regulations protecting all air passenger rights
Arrive on time
Don't assume you'll check in at a later time - Arrive on time and check-in as normal
Delay reason
Confirm the reason for delay in writing from the airline as this may form part any potential future claim
Other flights?
Make a note of whether other flights are departing - sometimes airlines use weather as an excuse
Flight compensation and bad weather
Weather and other exemptions
Flight disruption caused by adverse weather usually exempts airlines!
No.1 Bad Weather
Airlines are exempt from paying compensation when extreme weather conditions such as snow, storms, freezing rain, or fog force aircraft to remain on the ground or result in delayed takeoffs.
No.2 Natural Disasters
No payment when natural disasters like ash clouds occur, affecting air traffic and hindering visibility for pilots - Ash particles can impact the sensors of height and speed measuring instruments.
