There’s not an air traveler who hasn’t been there.
Even if you remember to check that your flight is on time before leaving for the airport, there’s still a good chance that when you get there, your flight will be delayed.
And they always seem to give you the delays incrementally.
First, it’s one hour, then, when that’s nearly up, they delay it for another hour.
Who knows when you will take off?
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Some (a very few) know exactly what to do and when you can claim for extra meals, accommodation, or damages from the delay. After all, some delays are the airline’s fault, while others may be due to natural causes, such as weather conditions, and available compensation can vary.
But if compensation is payable, it can be substantial, and you don’t want to miss out on it.
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How to Claim Compensation for Cancelled or Delayed Flights
Here are some easy ways to tackle this problem and get compensated for flight delays or cancellations.
1. File a Claim with AirHelp
AirHelp, at getairhelp.com, offers the same type of assistance if you have a bad traveling experience, and it also covers United States flights within the US.
They offer interesting information, such as the fact that you are entitled to 200% of a one-way fare if your flight arrives 1 to 2 hours late, and 400% if you’re more than two hours late, according to federal regulation.
They receive their payment of 25% out of your claim.
2. File a Claim with AirRefund
Another website that provides similar services is AirRefund.com. This site is geared more toward Europe, as Europe’s regulations make claiming compensation more straightforward.
3. File a Claim with Flightbucks
Update: FlightBucks is no longer in business!
If your travel includes Europe, this Texas-based company could help you get compensation, as Europe has strict regulations on its air travel. If you think you might be eligible, you can simply file a claim online through their website, and they’ll let you know.
You don’t pay unless a claim is successful, and then they take 27%.
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4. File a Claim with Refund.Me
Update: Refund.me has shut down!
In a similar manner to AirHelp, Refund.me is another website that will claim damages for you and will take 25% if successful.
5. Include Europe in Your Travels
You may have noticed a common theme in the discussion of compensation above. The EU compensates passengers for delayed/cancelled flights much better than the US does.
The rules and regulations on European flights are clear and enforced when it comes to compensation.
Even if you are flying to the US from Europe, if you are delayed more than three hours, you can get up to $825 in compensation.
6. Consider Travel Insurance
Some people dismiss travel insurance as a needless expense, but if you buy it and need to use it, it can be very worthwhile.
For instance, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection offers a plan called AirCare for just $33.50.
It pays out $50 if you’re delayed by two hours, $250 if you miss a connection because of the delay, and a cool $1000 if you are left sitting on the tarmac for two hours.
7. Cozy up to One Airline
If you travel a lot, try sticking with the same airline and becoming a favorite customer. It can help when you start arguing for compensation.
You can also get other benefits, such as priority boarding, free cocktails, and in some places, access to an exclusive airport lounge.
8. Book with the Right Credit Card!
Unless you have a good reason not to, you should pay for your travel with a credit card.
Many airline credit cards, as well as non-airline cards, offer better travel compensation for flights booked through them than the airlines will provide.
If you have several credit cards, compare the benefits.
For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred card includes protection for yourself and your family, providing up to $500 per person for meals, lodging, etc., if you are delayed overnight or for more than 12 hours.
Use Your Flight Rights to Get Compensated!
No one wants to be stuck in one place, trying to get to another place.
With flight delay/cancellation compensation, you can at least feel better knowing that you can get some compensation for your troubles.
Thankfully with so many options, today it is easier than ever to file a claim and get compensated for delayed or canceled flights!
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