When dealing with flight compensation for delays or cancellations on Ryanair flights, understanding your rights under EU Regulation 261/2004 is crucial. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Ryanair Compensation Entitlement
If your Ryanair flight experiences a significant delay or is cancelled, you may be entitled to Ryanair compensation under EU regulations. The amount of compensation depends on the distance of your flight:
- Flights of up to 1,500 kilometres: €250 (approximately £220).
- Flights between 1,500 and 3,500 kilometres: €400 (approximately £350).
- Flights over 3,500 kilometres: €600 (approximately £520).
This compensation is separate from any refund of your ticket price.
2. Rights to Care and Assistance
In addition to Ryanair compensation, passengers are entitled to certain provisions if their flight is delayed:
- For flights up to 1,500 kilometres delayed by more than 2 hours, or longer flights delayed by more than 3 hours, Ryanair must provide:
- Meals and refreshments appropriate to the waiting time.
- Access to communication, such as phone calls or emails.
- Hotel accommodation and transportation to and from the hotel if an overnight stay is necessary.
3. Options for Refund or Re-routing
If your Ryanair flight is cancelled, or delayed by more than 5 hours, you have the right to choose between:
- A full refund of the ticket price within 7 days.
- Re-routing to your final destination at the earliest opportunity, or at a later date that suits you.
How to Claim Ryanair Compensation
To claim Ryanair compensation for a delayed or cancelled Ryanair flight, follow these steps:
- Keep all relevant documents, including your boarding pass and any correspondence with Ryanair.
- Initiate your claim directly with Ryanair or use a specialised service that can assist you with the process.
- If necessary, escalate your claim to the appropriate national enforcement body if Ryanair does not respond or denies your claim unfairly.
Conclusion
Understanding and asserting your rights as a passenger is crucial when dealing with flight disruptions on Ryanair. Whether you’re seeking flight compensation of up to €600 or need a refund, knowing what you’re entitled to ensures that you can navigate these situations effectively. By staying informed and proactive, you can minimise the impact of flight delays and cancellations on your travel experience.
