If your flight is delayed, canceled, or you are denied boarding, you may be entitled to compensation and assistance under EU Regulation EC 261/2004. This law protects air passengers traveling with EU-based airlines (like Wizz Air) or departing from an EU airport.
Understanding your rights under this regulation can help you claim compensation when airlines fail to meet their obligations.
Who Is Protected Under EC 261/2004?
You are covered by this regulation if:
✅ You are flying from an EU airport (any airline).
✅ You are flying to an EU airport with an EU-based airline (e.g., Wizz Air).
✅ You have a confirmed booking and checked in on time.
💡 Example:
- Covered: Wizz Air flight from Paris to Budapest.
- Covered: Wizz Air flight from London to Rome.
- Not covered: Flight from New York to London with a non-EU airline (e.g., Delta).
When Are You Entitled to Compensation?
1. Flight Delays (3+ Hours Late Arrival)
- If your flight arrives 3 or more hours late, you may be entitled to compensation.
- The amount depends on the distance of your flight.
💰 Compensation for Delayed Flights
| Flight Distance | Delay Time | Compensation |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 1,500 km | 3+ hours | €250 |
| 1,500–3,500 km | 3+ hours | €400 |
| 3,500+ km (outside EU) | 4+ hours | €600 |
2. Flight Cancellations
If your flight is canceled less than 14 days before departure, you may be entitled to:
✔ A full refund or an alternative flight.
✔ Compensation, unless Wizz Air proves the cancellation was due to extraordinary circumstances (bad weather, air traffic control strikes, etc.).
📌 Compensation Rules for Canceled Flights
| Notification Time | Alternative Flight Arrival Time | Compensation |
|---|---|---|
| 7-13 days before departure | 2+ hours later than original flight | Eligible |
| Less than 7 days before departure | 2+ hours later than original flight | Eligible |
| More than 14 days before departure | Any time | ❌ Not eligible |
3. Denied Boarding (Overbooking)
If Wizz Air overbooks a flight and you are denied boarding despite having a valid ticket, you have the right to:
✔ A replacement flight or refund.
✔ Compensation of €250 to €600, depending on flight distance.
What Other Rights Do You Have?
If your flight is delayed by 2+ hours, you are entitled to:
✔ Meals and refreshments
✔ Two free phone calls or emails
✔ Hotel accommodation (if the delay requires an overnight stay)
✔ Transport to and from the airport if necessary
✈️ Example: If your Wizz Air flight is delayed overnight, they must cover your hotel stay and provide food vouchers.
When Are You NOT Entitled to Compensation?
There are some exceptions where airlines do not have to pay compensation:
❌ Extraordinary Circumstances – Events beyond Wizz Air’s control, such as:
- Bad weather (storms, snowstorms)
- Air traffic control strikes
- Security risks (terror threats)
❌ Delays Under 3 Hours – Compensation only applies if the delay is 3+ hours at arrival.
❌ Alternative Flight Arrives Close to the Original Time – If Wizz Air rebooks you on another flight within a reasonable timeframe, compensation might be reduced or waived.
How to Claim Your Compensation
If you qualify for compensation under EC 261/2004, follow these steps:
1️⃣ Gather Documents
- Boarding pass & booking confirmation
- Proof of delay/cancellation (emails, airport notifications)
2️⃣ Submit a Claim
- Use Wizz Air’s official claims portal.
- Alternatively, use services like AirHelp or Flightright.
3️⃣ Follow Up
- Wizz Air has up to 60 days to respond.
- If your claim is denied unfairly, escalate it to a national enforcement body (NEB).
EU Regulation EC 261/2004 ensures that passengers receive fair treatment when flights are delayed, canceled, or overbooked. If you’ve been affected by a disruption, don’t hesitate to claim your rights—you could be entitled to €250-€600 in compensation!
📢 Was your Wizz Air flight delayed or canceled? Check if you’re eligible for compensation today! 🚀