Cancelled / Delayed Flight, or Lost / Damaged luggage?

No, EU legislation does not specifically require passengers to use a particular format or method to submit a claim. If you prefer to submit your claim via email, you can do so.

Under EU Regulation (EC) No 261/2004, passengers are entitled to compensation for delayed or canceled flights. Compensation amounts are determined based on the flight distance and the length of the delay:

1. Delay or cancellation – Flight distance under 1,500 km:
   • €250 compensation if the flight is delayed by more than 3 hours or canceled.
2. Delay or cancellation – Flight distance between 1,500 km and 3,500 km:
   • €400 compensation if the flight is delayed by more than 3 hours or canceled.
3. Delay or cancellation – Flight distance over 3,500 km (outside the EU):
   • €600 compensation if the flight is delayed by more than 4 hours or canceled.

Exceptions:
• If the delay is less than 2, 3, or 4 hours, or if the airline can prove the delay was caused by extraordinary circumstances, such as bad weather or strikes, compensation may be reduced or not granted.
• If you are offered an alternative route that results in a shorter delay than originally planned, compensation may be reduced by 50%.

Regardless of compensation, you are entitled to the following if:
• Meals and drinks if the delay exceeds 2 hours (depending on distance).
• Hotel accommodation if the flight is delayed until the next day.
• Free transportation to and from the hotel.

Although EU Regulation 261/2004 does not specify deadlines, airlines may have internal policies requiring claims to be filed within a certain time after the flight, typically 6 to 12 months. This does not affect passengers’ rights under national law but could make it harder to claim compensation if filed late (3–6 years).

If your baggage is lost, delayed, or damaged, you are entitled to compensation from the airline.
• The compensation amount is limited to approximately €1,300, as set by the Montreal Convention, applicable in most countries, including all EU countries.

If your baggage is delayed, you are entitled to compensation for necessary expenses such as clothing, toiletries, or other essentials you need during the waiting period. This is often referred to as “interim compensation.”

Yes, but it must be done in the correct order:
• Claim from the airline first: Submit a claim to the airline within the applicable deadlines (7 days for lost baggage, 21 days for delayed baggage). Most travel insurance policies require you to attempt compensation from the airline first.
• File a claim with your travel insurance afterward: Once you have received a decision from the airline, you can forward it to your travel insurance provider along with the documentation. The insurance will typically cover amounts exceeding what the airline offers or costs not covered by the airline.

Yes, travel insurance usually covers lost or delayed items in addition to what you receive from the airline. Insurance can cover expenses such as additional costs for clothing and toiletries while you wait for your baggage. It can also cover high-value items that exceed the airline’s coverage limits.

The rules apply to flights within the EU, as well as flights to and from an EU country with an EU-based airline.

To support your claim, you need to gather the following documents:
• Boarding passes and travel documents: To prove you were on the flight in question.
• Documentation of the delay or cancellation: For example, confirmation from the airline about the incident.
• Receipts for expenses: These could be for additional costs for food, hotels, or necessities incurred due to the delay or loss.

A Property Irregularity Report (PIR) is usually required to claim compensation for delayed, lost, or damaged baggage. It serves as an official confirmation that you reported the issue to the airline and is an essential part of the documentation when filing a compensation claim.

• Documentation: A PIR provides proof that you reported the baggage issue to the airline within the required timeframe.
• Processing: The airline uses the PIR to track the baggage and process your claim.

Go to the airline’s baggage service or counter and request the following:

• Fill out the PIR form with details about your baggage (size, color, brand) and your travel information (flight number, date, destination).
• Make sure to get a written copy of the PIR report, including your reference number (PIR number). This is crucial for delayed or lost baggage claims.

• For delayed or damaged baggage: You must report and create a PIR within 7 days of receiving your baggage.
• For lost baggage: Baggage is considered lost after 21 days, at which point you can file for compensation.