Flight delay 2 hours: Claims in the event of a flight delay of 2 hours

Flight delay of 2 hours: Who hasn’t experienced it? You start your well-earned and long-awaited holiday, arrive at the airport, and find that your flight is delayed. This is especially annoying when you have to catch another flight on time in order to reach your final destination. The EU Passenger Rights Regulation 261/2004 was created precisely for these scenarios. After all, it ensures that you receive compensation for a delayed or even canceled flight. However, this is not always the case. In particular, if the delay is “only” two hours, you are not actually entitled to any compensation under the regulation. However, we explain below whether and to what extent other claims can be made.

Entitlement to compensation for a delay of two hours

Even a delay of “only” two hours can be a real nuisance. After all, you want to finally reach your holiday destination. Business travelers, on the other hand, are annoyed about missing an important appointment. Some may even plan to board a connecting flight, which has to be reached in time. Of course, one wonders at this point whether there is any legal recourse against the airline. Unfortunately, anyone seeking monetary compensation will not succeed in the case of a two-hour delay. After all, the EU Passenger Rights Regulation 261/2004 states that a delay of at least three hours at the point of arrival must apply.

The only exception is if the flight was canceled less than one week before departure. If you now look for an alternative at short notice, and this is why you arrive more than two hours late at your destination, you can make a claim for compensation. So if your flight is delayed by 2 hours, there is no compensation. However, you can make a different claim. For example, if your flight is delayed by two hours or more, your airline must take care of you by offering you support services. These can be very different. They start with a simple supply of food and drink and can end with an overnight stay in a hotel.

If there is a flight delay of 2 hours, the airline staff will usually provide you with vouchers that can be redeemed at local airport restaurants and snack bars. If this does not happen, however, you do not have to worry about starving. If your flight is delayed by 2 hours, you can recover the costs incurred as compensation from the airline. Just make sure you keep the corresponding payment receipts.

Flight delay 2 hours – What you can do at the airport

A flight delay of 2 hours has many disadvantages. Not only will you arrive later at your destination. On top of that, waiting at the airport can be rather boring. Especially if you are traveling with children, this can be a real test of nerves. Of course, you then ask yourself how to make time go by as fast as possible. So, how do you deal with a 2-hour flight delay at the airport?

1. Asserting the right to care services

If your flight is delayed by at least two hours, you have a right to care services from the airline. And this can be worthwhile not only for you, but also for your children. After all, snacks and tasty drinks are a welcome distraction from boredom. If the staff does not offer appropriate snacks, simply go looking for food yourself. Experience shows that airports offer a wide range of restaurants and snack bars. Everyone should be able to find something there. Be sure to keep the receipts for later reimbursement by the airline. 

2. Collect evidence

Experience has shown that airlines seldom pursue passenger rights. This also applies to the reimbursement of care costs. Instead, they are often refused. All the better if you can prove that there really was a delay. Simply take photos of the arrival/departure display screens. This will prove that there really was a delay. In the best case, also ask other passengers on your flight to do so. This way you collect several pieces of evidence independently of each other.

3. Don’t let it spoil your holiday mood

A delay always comes at the worst possible time. But it is least welcome when you want to fly on your well-deserved holiday. But there’s no need to get upset about the delay. It only strains your nerves unnecessarily. After all, there is nothing you can do about the delay anyway.

4. Kill time

The best way to pass the time is with a good book. You may also find a good kiosk at the airport that can provide you with fresh reading material. Your smartphone is a walking entertainment machine anyway. You can use it to watch a film or series or play a game. An empty battery or exhausted data volume is no obstacle. One of the numerous USB ports at the airport will provide a battery charge. A freely accessible WLAN network, which every airport offers nowadays, also provides you with internet access. If you like it the old way and want to engage your children, you can also use a good old card game. There are no limits to the possibilities here.

5. Walk through the airport

If you have a long-haul flight ahead of you, you should try not to kill the waiting time at the airport by sitting down. After all, more hours of sitting on the plane will follow. Since sitting for too long is not healthy, you should rather use the time to stroll around the airport. This keeps the blood circulation going and prepares you well for sitting for hours in the plane.

Flight delay 2 hours Package tour 

A flight delay of 2 hours does not yet entitle passengers to compensation under the EU Air Passenger Rights Regulation. But is compensation available for a flight delay of 2 hours if it is a package tour? No. Since Regulation 261/2004 also applies here, there is no compensation for a flight delay of 2 hours for a package tour either. However, compensation claims can be made in this case as well.

What do you get for a 2-hour flight delay?

For most, a flight delay of 2 hours is already extremely annoying. You certainly have a right to benefits in the event of a two-hour delay. But do you also get your money back in case of a 2-hour delay? No. The EU Passenger Rights Regulation only recognizes a claim for compensation in the case of a delay of at least three hours. An example illustrates the implications.

Example:

You want to take a flight from Berlin to Rome. When you arrive at the airport, you find out that the flight scheduled for 4 p.m. is delayed. At 6:15 p.m. the plane finally takes off, and you arrive in Rome 2 hours late. In this case, you are not entitled to compensation. However, you could have asked for food and drink at the airport from 18:00.

The situation is different if the flight does not take off until 20:00, and you arrive in Rome 3:45 hours late. In this case, you are entitled to 250 euros in compensation, as Rome is just under 1,184 km from Berlin as the crow flies and is therefore considered a short-haul flight. During your waiting time at the airport, you can also claim benefits from your airline. This is possible from a waiting time of 2 hours.

What do you get for a flight delay of 1 hour?

A flight delay of less than 2 hours does not give you any entitlement. In these cases, you can neither claim compensation nor demand benefits from the airline. This is quite understandable. After all, delays can always occur at the airport, which you simply have to accept to a certain extent. There are often reasons for them that are beneficial to one’s own safety and the safety of other passengers. If a flight delay of less than 2 hours occurs, you should simply accept it.

What do you get in the event of a 3-hour flight delay?

The EU Air Passenger Rights Regulation 261/2004 was created to help passengers in case of delays. If there is a flight delay of at least 3 hours, you are entitled to 250 euros (up to 1,500 km), 400 euros (1,500 km to 3,500 km) or 600 euros (more than 3,500 km), depending on the flight distance. Consequently, you are entitled to compensation for a flight delay of 3 hours. In turn, a flight delay of more than two hours already entitles you to care services.

How long can a flight be delayed?

To a certain extent, passengers must simply accept a flight delay without being entitled to compensation. A delay of up to two hours is reasonable. Anything over two hours should entail the provision of care services y. In this case, your airline must provide food and drink and, under certain circumstances, an overnight stay in a hotel. If the delay is at least 3 hours, compensation of between 250 and 600 euros is again possible.

How much money do I get if my flight is delayed?

In the event of a flight delay, compensation can only be paid under certain circumstances. Only if you reach your destination with a delay of at least 3 hours can you claim compensation. The EU Passenger Rights Regulation specifies compensation of between 250 and 600 euros, depending on the distance.

What counts as a flight delay?

The decisive factor is the time at which you arrive at your destination airport. If you take off three hours late and arrive at your destination only 2:30 hours late due to very good conditions, you are not entitled to compensation. The claim only arises from three hours of delayed arrival.

Flight delay 2 hours long-haul – What are you entitled to?

Whether you have a short-haul or long-haul flight ahead of you has no influence on your entitlement to food and drink. You are always entitled to food and drink from the airline if there is a delay of at least two hours. If you arrive at your destination with a delay of at least three hours, it is again relevant whether you flew long-haul or short-haul. Whereas a short-haul flight allows for “only” 250 euros in compensation, a long-haul flight allows for 600 euros.

Which airline do you fly with? 

When it comes to compensation for flight delays, the EU Passenger Rights Regulation has a precise catalog of compensation payments. But the airlines themselves have sometimes drawn up their own additional regulations on how to pacify their passengers in the event of a delay.

Flight delay 2 hours Eurowings – What are you entitled to?

• Entitlement to meals and refreshments
• Hotel accommodation if required
• Transfer
• Reimbursement of costs for telephone calls

Flight delay 2 hours Lufthansa – What are you entitled to?

• Meals and drinks
• Hotel accommodation if necessary
• Transfer
• Possibility for two short telephone calls, faxes, or emails

Flight delay 2 hours Ryanair – What are you entitled to?

• Meals and drinks
• Two phone calls or emails
• Hotel accommodation if required
• Transfer

Not affected by the above airlines? Visit our full list of airlines.

Online check-in: advantages and tips

Nowadays, anyone taking a flight enjoys far more comfort than just a few years ago. This is not because the seats are more comfortable or the obligatory tomato juice tastes better. Rather, a lot has changed in all aspects of air travel, which we owe primarily to advancing digitalization and the ubiquity of the internet. Just a few years ago, you had to be at the airport in person hours before departure to be able to check in. Fortunately, almost every airline now offers a convenient online check-in. Here you can check-in in advance via the internet, which lets you avoid an annoying queue at the airport so that you can arrive at your destination less stressed. In the following, we will show you the other advantages of checking in online and what you should bear in mind.

What does online check-in mean? 

Have you booked a flight? Then sooner or later you will be informed that it is possible to check in. For some years now, you have been able to do this conveniently via the internet. But what does Online Check-In actually mean, and what is so practical about checking in online? Firstly, it is important to understand why check-in exists in the first place. The purpose of checking-in is to receive your boarding pass. A few years ago, you had to present your ID and booking confirmation at the airport to receive your boarding pass. Now, thanks to online check-in, you can do this in advance from the comfort of your home.

However, you should also be aware of a few things. Online check-in does not necessarily mean that all you have to do is show up for boarding. For example, if you are taking suitcases with you on your journey, you will have to check in your luggage first. This can also lead to long waiting times, which is why a time buffer is extremely important in these cases. You should also keep flight security checks in mind when planning the correct arrival time at the airport. The same applies if you want to check in unusual luggage items. In particular, travelers with pets or bulky luggage should plan for a sufficient buffer.

Since the operation of the check-in counters at the airport is associated with extra costs for the airline, some now even oblige their customers to check in online in advance. Since pretty much everyone has internet access these days, it is perfectly reasonable to expect your customers to do this. A very well-known airline that requires a check-in via the internet is Ryanair, for example. However, if a passenger does not have an internet-capable device, it is usually possible to check in at a special machine in the airport. A big advantage of checking-in in advance is that you can choose your seat. Whether this reservation is associated with additional costs depends on the airline.

• Short distance flight delays – up to 1500 km – Passengers are due €250 Compensation
• Medium distance flight delays – between 1500 km and 3500 km – Passengers are due €400 Compensation
• Long distance flight delays – over 3500 km – Passengers are due €600 Compensation

According to the EU Air Passenger Rights Regulation, the amount of compensation is calculated according to the flight route (distance):

How does an online check in work? 

How does online check-in work? If you want to check-in in advance, you can do so conveniently via the relevant airline portal. Information on how this works can be found on the websites of most airlines. This process is generally very easy. Nowadays, you often don’t even need an internet browser, as many airlines also offer their customers a convenient app. This allows you to check in conveniently via your smartphone. If you want to check in online, you should have some important documents ready.

These include the booking number of the flight and the names of the passengers. Then simply follow the instructions provided by the airline. If you have checked in successfully, it is important that you print out the boarding passes or at least save them on your mobile device in the form of a QR code. However, we recommend that you print them out in the traditional way. If your smartphone should happen to be defective, you will at least have an alternative to show.

Is the online check-in free of charge?

Being able to check-in in advance is a convenient way to get boarding passes. The question naturally arises whether online check-in is free of charge. When passengers use online check-in, it relieves the airline’s ground staff. This in turn ensures that the airline saves money. Consequently, it is hardly surprising that airlines offer this service free of charge. The situation is different with “special requests”. Especially, seat reservations during the online check-in, may incur additional costs.

What should I bear in mind when checking in online?

Online check-in is a convenient way to obtain boarding passes. However, there are a few things you should be aware of. Sometimes it may not be possible at all. This is the case with some package tours or so-called group flights. So it is better to inform yourself in advance. If possible, you should not check in online if you want to check in bulky luggage or a pet. Conversely, there are airlines that oblige you to check in online.

Should I check in online?

Checking in online is far more convenient than checking in at the airport. However, if you have to check in special luggage such as bulky goods or a pet, you should rather use the classic method.

What happens when I check in online?

You will receive your boarding pass conveniently by email. It is best to print it out and take it with you to the airport.

When does online check-in make sense?

Online check-in makes the most sense when you do not want to spend a lot of time waiting at the airport. Especially people who are only traveling with hand luggage can save a lot of time this way.

Advantages of online check in

More and more passengers are using the Internet to check in before a flight. But why is that? What is the advantage of online check-in? Online check in offers many advantages to air travelers. Many airlines such as Eurowings offer online check in, which is usually available 24 hours before departure. Check-in during the evening is also possible with Eurowings. Online check in at Eurowings is free of charge and can be done via the website or the Eurowings app.

Online check in is also possible with Emirates, but only via the website or the Emirates app. It is important to find out about online check in with the booked airline in good time before departure and, if necessary, take the necessary steps. Online check in is also possible at Berlin-Brandenburg Airport (BER), but you should arrive there on time at Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 to be able to check in at the self-service machines. It is always advisable to find out about online check in and check-in times at the airport before departure to avoid stress. We have listed the advantages of online check-in for you below.

1. Less waiting time at the airport

If you have already checked in beforehand, you don’t have to queue for check-in. This saves you time at the airport.

2. Less likelihood of overbooking

By checking in online, you secure your personal boarding pass and thus also a seat on the plane. In the rare event of an overbooking, you are thus protected.

3. Boarding pass always at hand

Your boarding pass is stored in digital form on your smartphone and is therefore always at hand.

4. Seat selection 

You can choose your preferred seat. This allows you to choose a place of your choice in the plane.

5. Paying when checking in at the airport

If you choose to check in online, you avoid additional costs that are incurred when checking-in at the airport.

Online Check in – are there also disadvantages?

It is not so easy to find possible disadvantages of checking in online. One disadvantage is certainly that many people have poor time management and arrive too late at the airport if they check in online. For some, this can lead to unwanted time pressure. On the other hand, those who still have to check in at the airport itself usually arrive early enough and are therefore over-punctual.

Check in at the airport or online check in? 

Check in at the airport vs. online check in. Which is better? In our opinion, it depends on which flight you are taking. For a short-haul flight where you are only taking hand luggage, checking in online saves a lot of time and is therefore much better than checking in at the airport. If, on the other hand, you have to check in bulky luggage, it is better to use the classic check-in at the airport for security reasons.

When do I have to be at the airport if I have checked in online?

Even if you have checked in online, you should follow the advice of most airlines and be at the airport at least two hours before departure.

Can I go straight to security after checking in online?

If you have additional baggage besides hand luggage, you must first go to the baggage check. If, on the other hand, you are only carrying hand luggage, you can go directly to the security check.

What do I do with my baggage if I have checked in online?

You must check in your baggage at the baggage claim area before going through security.

How do I get my boarding pass when I check in online?

Not having a boarding pass in your hands after checking in online is probably the biggest difference compared to checking in at the airport. But you don’t have to worry about that. When you check in online, you will receive your boarding pass on your mobile phone. It is best to print out your boarding pass after checking in online and take it with you to the airport. Alternatively, you can show the QR code on your smartphone.

Can I choose seats when checking in online?

For an additional charge, you can select and reserve the seat you want when you check in online.

How far in advance can I check in online?

Most airlines allow online check-in between 24 hours and 2 hours before departure.

When can I check in online? – Overview of the airlines

When can I check in online? We have listed the airlines’ time slots.

Despite online check in, boarding was denied!

Although you have checked in, you were not allowed to board the aircraft? Then you have a right to compensation for denied boarding. Flightright’s legal experts can help you enforce your rights.

Flying during thunderstorms – What should I bear in mind?

Flying is undoubtedly the fastest way to travel from A to B in comfort. This is at least the case if you have to travel long distances. Some can sleep comfortably during a flight, but for others, it is a real challenge. Thunderstorms during the flight can be particularly frightening. Here, even people without fear of flying sometimes panic. But thunderstorms can have other effects as well. They often result in flight delays and cancellations due to bad weather. How dangerous a thunderstorm really is for aircraft and what you are entitled to in the event of a delay or cancellation is explained below.

What is actually “bad weather”?

The term “bad weather” is used almost inflationarily in everyday life. For many people, the fact that the sky is cloudy and the sun is obscured is enough to speak of bad weather. In the context of air travel, however, one has to apply completely different standards. Let us explain the three most common weather phenomena that can lead to problems in connection with air travel.

1. Severe weather

In meteorology, severe weather is defined as one or more extreme weather events. Very different weather extremes can be relevant here. For example, strong winds such as a storm or hurricane are just as much a storm as black ice, heavy downpours or snowstorms.

2. Thunderstorm front

In our region, thunderstorm fronts usually occur in summer. The reason for this are the sometimes extreme temperature differences. If a cold front cools down during the warm summer season, it often brings a series of thunderclouds with it. These in turn are called thunderstorm fronts. Thunderstorm fronts in summer must be distinguished from classic heat storms. While heat storms often affect only small areas, thunderstorm fronts can bring rain, lightning and thunder, sometimes over large areas.

3. Ash cloud

One form of “bad weather” that fortunately occurs extremely rarely is the so-called ash cloud. This is caused by volcanic activity. Probably the most famous example is Eyjafjallajökull, located in Iceland, which erupted on 20 March 2010. The resulting volcanic ash was carried into the air by eruptions. Due to the poor visibility caused by the cloud in European airspace, air traffic was suspended in large parts of the continent.

What is a thunderstorm? Dangerous lightning?

Not all thunderstorms are the same. In meteorology, a distinction is made between different forms. They are always caused by high temperature differences. That is why the strongest thunderstorms usually occur in both the summer and winter months. In a summer thunderstorm, it is the moist warm air that rises and meets cold air masses in higher regions. A winter thunderstorm, on the other hand, occurs when the air masses suddenly cool down already at a high temperature. The large temperature differences lead to increased cloud formation, which in turn generates electricity. In order for this voltage to discharge, lightning and thunder occur.

The weather phenomenon of thunder and lightning has fascinated and frightened people for thousands of years. This is hardly surprising, especially in view of the existing scientific knowledge of our ancestors. They always associated the loud crash and bright, sudden glow with a warning from their gods or from nature. But even if we are smarter today, this does not mean that lightning is harmless. For example, lightning causes an extremely high current, which can result in serious injuries such as burns.

Do planes fly during thunderstorms? 

Thunderstorms in themselves carry a certain risk that simply has to be dealt with. But what about flying during thunderstorms? Can you fly when there is lightning? Aircraft are an extremely safe means of transport. But can they fly during a thunderstorm? It is a fact that airplanes are occasionally struck by lightning on their journey from A to B. According to experts, this happens at least once a year. But aircraft can usually withstand these strikes/incidents without further complications.

After all, they usually hardly notice the impact. It manifests itself in a slight bang or a discreet wobble. Acoustically and visually, on the other hand, the experience is more dramatic. This means that here, too, a sudden bright light appears first. This is followed by a crashing roll of thunder. But you should not let this drive you crazy. After all, you are well protected from the lightning in the aircraft. Because of the metal sheathing, the lightning cannot penetrate the inside of the aircraft. It only leaves a small spot on the outer shell of the aircraft. If you are experiencing a thunderstorm during air travel for the first time, you may well panic. In this case, you should remember that a thunderstorm front usually passes through quickly.

Flying during thunderstorms: How dangerous is it really?

Flying during thunderstorms is not a pleasant experience for most people. This is not the least because many people are already afraid of thunder and lightning on the ground. If you then find yourself in an exceptional situation in an aircraft, the effects are usually even worse. But is a thunderstorm dangerous for aircraft at all? Many passengers assume so, as flights are grounded during thunderstorms. What few people know is that flights are rarely delayed or even cancelled in this case because of the risks to aircraft, crew and passengers. Rather, it is because of the risks to people who have to work around it. In particular, those who are responsible for security and loading luggage on the tarmac of an airport face great risks. To ensure that they do not suffer any damage, airports usually impose a flight ban in these cases.

Only after the thunderstorm has ended are people allowed to work on the tarmac again and flights allowed to take off again. But how is it possible to be completely spared from the thunderstorm inside? This is where the principle of the Faraday cage comes into play. We also know this from closed vehicles on the ground, such as cars or trucks. The Faraday cage describes a law in which a closed space guides the lightning along a round body when lightning strikes. Once the lightning has circled the body, it leaves it again. It follows that people inside the room do not have to worry about being struck by lightning. To rule out any long-term consequences for aircraft technology, an aircraft struck by lightning is thoroughly checked after landing.

What happens when an aircraft is struck by lightning?

What happens when lightning strikes the aircraft? Due to the special material and shape of the aircraft, there is nothing to fear when lightning strikes. Once lightning has struck the aircraft it spreads out over the entire fuselage according to the principle of the Faraday cage, discharges and then leaves the aircraft at the opposite end of the impact site. To minimize damage to the aluminium and copper sheathing, captains nevertheless try to fly around thunderstorm fronts as best they can.

So is flying during a thunderstorm completely safe?

If you are sitting in an aeroplane, you do not have to be afraid of being struck by lightning. This is due to the physical principle of the Faraday cage. So is flying through a thunderstorm completely harmless? Since 200,000 aircraft around the world carry freight and passengers from A to B every day, there have of course been problems in history that resulted from a thunderstorm. After all, even the best aircraft technology and the most modern meteorological forecasts cannot rule out that in exceptional cases a disaster may occur. However, it is very rarely lightning that poses a danger. Instead, strong gusts of wind can become a danger. But even if this danger is omnipresent, it should by no means be overestimated. Modern flight support systems can easily cope with strong gusts.

Bad weather – always an exceptional circumstance?

When it comes to the possibility of compensation due to the delay or even cancellation of a flight, there is a crucial question. Is it a matter of ordinary or extraordinary circumstances? Unfortunately, if an extraordinary circumstance causes your flight to be delayed or not to depart at all, you cannot make a claim under the EU Passenger Rights Regulation 261/2004. After all, you cannot hold the airline responsible for the circumstance. If your flight is suddenly cancelled, weather conditions are often responsible for this. Since storms, thunderstorms and heavy downpours are exceptional circumstances, the airline isn’t responsible.

Flight cancellation and flight delay due to a thunderstorm – What are you entitled to?

A thunderstorm is an extraordinary circumstance for which the airline is not responsible. This means that if your flight is delayed or even cancelled, you have no claim under the EU Passenger Rights Regulation 261/2004. Incidentally, this does not only apply if aircraft are not allowed to take off due to weather conditions. If an aircraft has been struck by lightning, it will be thoroughly checked by specialists afterwards. This can sometimes take several hours, which also leads to delays. Since this process is also directly related to the weather, such a delay will also be due to an extraordinary circumstance in most cases. But can I get compensation despite the bad weather? It can always be worth trying. In this case, simply contact air passenger rights experts like Flightright. We will check whether the airline is just using a poor excuse or if there really were extraordinary circumstances.

Compensation payments due to severe weather: How to secure your claims

You missed your flight or it was even cancelled? In these cases, you are usually entitled to compensation under the EU Air Passenger Rights Regulation 261/2004. The only exception is if extraordinary circumstances led to this. But you should also check your claim in the event of a delay due to a storm. You have nothing to lose. To maximize your chances of getting compensation, it is best to follow the checklist below. 

1. Flying during thunderstorms – Check in on time

Be sure to arrive at the check-in terminal on time to be able to check in on time. Otherwise, you risk being ultimately responsible for a missed flight.

2. Watch air traffic

Is your airline claiming severe weather as the cause of delays or cancellations? Keep an eye on the air traffic to analyse whether it has really been suspended or drastically reduced. If nothing has changed, the airline may just be trying to use extraordinary circumstances as a pretext.

3. Flying during thunderstorms – Documents / Documentation

You should definitely document your findings and corresponding times. This can prove to be valuable evidence for the enforcement of air passenger rights.

4. Flying during thunderstorms – Checking your claim

You can conveniently check whether you are entitled to compensation at Flightright.

5. File a claim – even retroactively

Even if your flight was several months or even years ago, you can enforce your rights retroactively. In Germany, for example, the statute of limitations is three years.

How much is the compensation?

The amount of compensation depends on various factors. Not only does the length of the delay play a major role. Whether the flight is short-haul, medium-haul or long-haul is also relevant. If the arrival is delayed by at least three hours, your entitlements are as follows:

• Short distance – up to 1500 km – Passengers are due €250 Compensation
• Medium distance – between 1500 km and 3500 km – Passengers are due €400 Compensation
• Long distance – over 3500 km – Passengers are due €600 Compensation

Flight delay (at destination after possible rebooking and/or diversions)

Flight cancellation (at destination after possible rebooking and/or diversions)

Best seat on the plane: tips & tricks

The best seats on the plane: Flights can be very stressful, especially because you can hardly move your body and legs for several hours. The time can then drag on endlessly, and you can hardly wait to finally get off the plane to move your legs (stress-free flying). Therefore, to make a flight more enjoyable, it is important for air travelers to know the best seats on the plane and the tips and tricks on how to get them. Read more about this in the blog article. 

Where is the best place to sit on the plane?

Where is the best seat on the plane? This is certainly a question many air travellers ask themselves when they complete the online check-in. Which seat is best on the plane depends on various factors. It is clear that you have more comfort in First Class or Business Class than in Economy Class. However, you also pay a high additional price for this. However, since most air travellers fly economy class, this article focuses on that.

What are the best seats on the plane?

The best seats on the plane also depend on the traveler’s taste. Is it important to you to be able to get off quickly or to have a lot of legroom, for example? All this plays a role in deciding which are the best seats on the plane. Especially on long flights, the so-called XL seats at the emergency exits are very popular. The disadvantage is that many airlines charge extra for the additional space. If you want to experience as little turbulence as possible, it is best to book a seat above the wings. It has been proven that turbulence is least noticeable there. 

Another good choice is a seat in the front of the plane, as vibrations are also less noticeable there than in the back. If you get hungry quickly on the plane, you should also book a seat as far to the front of the plane as possible, as they usually start serving the food at the front. If, on the other hand, it is particularly important to see a lot of the flight, you should book a window seat. If you have to go to the toilet often or want to move around a bit on the plane, an aisle seat is advisable. 

According to the EU Air Passenger Rights Regulation, the amount of compensation is calculated according to the flight route (distance):

Is it better to sit in the front or the back of the plane?

Is the best seat on the plane in the front or in the back? Travellers often ask themselves this question when booking. The answer: it depends. If you have a fear of flying, you should try to avoid the back of the plane. It shakes and jolts more violently there than in the front if there is turbulence. The seats above the wings are also somewhat quieter, especially during take-off and landing. On the other hand, you have a little more peace and quiet in the rear of the aircraft. The service trolley does not come by all the time, and experience shows that the toilet is used much less in the rear than in the front.

How are seats allocated on the plane?

The distribution of seats on the plane is usually regulated very precisely. For the most part, seats are booked and also allocated from the front to the back, as the front rows are closer to the doors in case of emergency. To distribute the in-flight catering, crew members also usually go from front to back. 

Is there a free choice of seat on the plane?

Changing seats on the plane is largely possible after consultation with the crew. The fixed seating arrangement is not intended to keep passengers away from seats that are available, but to ensure maximum safety on board. A friendly request to the crew usually helps to find another free seat or to change seats with another passenger.

Can I simply change seats on the plane?

In principle, all passengers must be seated in their previously assigned seats when the aircraft takes off. Therefore, it is usually not possible to change seats in the aircraft during take-off, as the balance of the aircraft can be lost by changing seats. However, in principle, there is nothing to be said against changing to another seat once the aircraft has reached cruising altitude. However, you should always ask the flight attendant before doing so, as on some flights certain seats are intentionally left empty. 

Can I choose seats during the check-in?

As part of the online check-in process, it is now possible with almost all airlines to reserve a seat online. However, it is usually only possible to reserve a window or aisle seat, for example, for varying reservation fees. However, especially on long-haul flights, you may not have to pay anything for the service, especially if you check in early enough.

Why is it not allowed to change seats on the plane?

Passengers should not simply change their seats if they are not happy with it. This can lead to safety problems and annoy the flight attendants. Some seats are only designed for certain groups of people. For example, only people who are physically fit and speak good English should sit at the emergency exits so that they can quickly assist in an emergency. If you would like to change seats after all, you should politely ask the flight attendant if this is possible.

Where do you have the most legroom on a plane?

If passengers are particularly keen on having more legroom, the front seats or emergency exits offer the most space. Chances of getting such a seat increase if you book early enough or are willing to spend more money for the seat.

Best seats on the plane with baby! – Where?

Finding a good seat on the plane with a baby is important. Otherwise, the flight can be very stressful for you and your fellow passengers. A baby on the plane often means stress, because it can cry or shriek very easily. To avoid this, it is best to sit with a baby on the plane in a quiet place where it does not shake so much in turbulence. If the baby is still small, he or she can sit on the parent’s lap. If the baby is already a little bigger, there are suitable seats provided by the airline. 

Best seats on the plane with children! – Where?

Finding the best seats on a plane with children can sometimes be difficult. But where is the best place to sit on a plane with children? It depends on how old and tall the children are. For example, do they need more legroom or can they share a seat with their parents. If they are very frightened of flying, it is best to find a rather quiet seat near the wings or in the front of the plane. If the child is very active, an aisle seat makes sense, as this way other passengers do not have to get up when the child wants to stand or walk.

Where is it loudest on the plane?

It is noisiest at the back of the plane, because the noise is concentrated at the end of the plane. The further forward you sit, for example in front of the wings and engines, the quieter it is. It is also louder at the emergency exit, as the doors there are significantly less insulated.

Special seats on the plane! – Where?

Especially on long flights, the so-called XL seats at the emergency exits are very popular. The disadvantage is that many airlines charge extra for the extra space. If you want to experience as little turbulence as possible, it is best to book a seat above the wings. It has been proven that turbulence is least noticeable there. Another good choice is a seat in the front of the plane, as vibrations are also less noticeable there than in the back. If you get hungry quickly on the plane, you should also book a seat as far to the front of the plane as possible, as flight attendants usually start serving food at the front.

What happens if you do not reserve a seat on the plane?

If you don’t select a seat during online check-in, you don’t have to worry about not being taken on board. You will simply be allocated a random seat. This can mean that several people with the same booking end up sitting separately on the plane. It is also rather unusual to end up in one of the coveted seats without a reservation.

A brief summary of the best seats on the plane for you

The best seats on the plane: 

• Empty rows or rows of two make flying more pleasant
• If you sit far towards the front, you can get off the plane quickest, and you also have the quietest seats on the plane.
• If you want to have your meals quickly, you will do yourself a favour by sitting close to the kitchen; however, you’ll also have to deal with the disadvantages of this type of seat.
• All in all, it can be said that there is no such thing as THE perfect seat on the plane, because everyone has different ideas of what a perfect seat should be, but most passengers are quick to agree on the worst seats!

Worst seats on the plane 

• The seat in the middle of a row
• The seats right near the toilets
• Seats near the kitchen, where people spend a lot of time cleaning up and preparing food.

Tip: In order to secure the desired seat, it is possible to check in earlier via online check-in and thus reserve the specific seat online in advance.

Flight delay compensation deadline: What you should know

Holiday time is travel time. But the dream of sun, beach, and sea can quickly turn into a real nightmare. A flight delay in particular can quickly ruin plans for a long-awaited and well-deserved break. A delayed flight not only causes a lot of stress. If you have to make a connecting flight or train on time, you sometimes have to dig deep into your pocket to eventually reach your destination. But as a passenger, you don’t have to put up with that. After all, you can claim compensation. 

This is the result of the EU Regulation EC 261 2004, the so-called Air Passenger Regulation. This sets out the most important rights that passengers can assert as a result of a delay or even a flight cancellation. As with the enforcement of all rights, however, the right timing is important here, too. There is also a deadline for compensation in the event of a flight delay. What rights apply in the event of delays, when a flight delay triggers compensation, and what time limit applies are discussed in more detail below. 

Limitation periods in travel law: What you should know

A flight delay can be very annoying and is something travelers would certainly like to avoid. But if your airline is delayed, you do not have to put up with it. In most cases, you are entitled to extensive compensation. And quite rightly so. After all, additional costs often arise, especially on the outward journey, and travelers cannot be left without commensurate compensation. For example, EU Regulation 261 2004 regulates an extensive catalogue in which compensation payments by the airline are laid down. 

Since the EU regulation focuses on air passenger rights, it is also called the Air Passenger Rights Regulation. Deadlines also play a major role in the regulation. After all, it would not be in the spirit of the rule of law for a passenger to be able to assert rights forever due to a delay. This would confound legal certainty. On the other hand, in the event of a delay, you do not have to call the airline directly and assert your rights. Rather, you are left with certain deadlines in these cases. 

For example, it is possible to claim compensation from the airline retroactively. The limitation period for a claim for compensation against the airline in the event of a flight delay varies depending on the country in which the claim is made. This is clear from the wording of EU Regulation 261 2004. Here, EU law specifies that “the subject is subject to the national law of each Member State as regards the limitation period for bringing forward an action”. Consequently, it is worth taking a look at the rules of the country in which you wish to initiate your claim for damages. 

For this, let us first take a look at German law. Here, the so-called standard limitation period is three years. This is regulated by § 195 BGB. The provision also states when the period begins and ends. Thus, the period starts at the end of the year in which the delay occurred. For example, if you had a flight delay in April 2021, the three-year period does not start to run until 31 December 2021. Consequently, you have until 31 December 2024 to make your claim.

According to the EU Air Passenger Rights Regulation, the amount of compensation is calculated according to the flight route (distance):

Time limit for compensation in case of flight delay

If passengers wish to enforce their passenger rights in Germany due to a flight delay, they, therefore, have three years from the end of the year to claim compensation. However, as already mentioned, the EU Passenger Rights Regulation stipulates that the deadlines are set by each individual EU Member State. So if you want to claim your rights in another EU country, the question is: How long are compensation claims valid? When it comes to the time limits for claiming compensation, Germany does not take a pioneering role. On the contrary, the standard limitation period in this country places it at the bottom of the league in an EU comparison. We have summarized which limitation periods apply in the other EU countries in the following table.  

How long are compensation claims valid? Time limits for claiming compensation payments:

How is the limitation period calculated in Germany?

Concerning time limits, it is not only important to keep the mere duration of the time limit in mind. On top of that, the calculation of the time limit is of great importance. This is also the case with a flight delay. Different factors are decisive for the calculation. On the one hand, there is the question of the beginning of the time limit. This is the point in time at which the time limit begins to run. And here, by no means all EU countries act in unison. There are Member States in the EU in which the time limit begins to run immediately after the event, causing damage. 

If the damaging event were to occur on 2 April 2022, the period for asserting the claim for compensation would expire on 2 April 2025 at the latest, based on a three-year period. But what about the flight delay compensation deadline in Germany? Here, neither the explicit day nor the month is used. Instead, the year in which the damaging event occurred is decisive. In Germany, the statute of limitations begins to run when the year ends. More precisely, on 31 December. If this falls on a Saturday or Sunday in a year, the period begins on the following working day in accordance with § 193 BGB.

In order to illustrate this, consider the following example. If the delay occurs on 2 April 2022, the deadline begins on 31 December 2022. However, 31 December 2022 falls on a Saturday. Consequently, the following Monday must be taken as the start of the period. Thus, in our example, the three-year period begins on 2 January 2023 and ends on 2 January 2026. 

Flight delay compensation deadline: The limitation period for my flight delay has almost expired, what should I do?

Especially when there is a delay on the outbound flight to your holiday, you tend to forget about it. After all, you don’t want to worry about legal disputes during your well-deserved time off. However, it is important not to lose track of time and to keep your air passenger rights in mind. After all, you are entitled to compensation. If the statute of limitations is getting closer and closer, some people give up trying to enforce their rights against the airline. 

But you don’t have to rack your brains even shortly before the deadline – at least if you rely on a reliable partner like Flightright. We do everything we can to check your claim for compensation within the shortest possible time. If we identify a valid cause for compensation, we will contact the responsible airline as soon as possible. This way, even shortly before the deadline, we do everything we can to ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to.

Place of departure or place of arrival: Whose limitation period counts?

The EU Passenger Rights Regulation establishes rights for air passengers throughout the European Union. Nevertheless, there can always be a great deal of confusion in individual cases. The reason for this is that the laws on time limits in individual states differ considerably in some cases. Thus, in the case of compensation, not only the question of the duration of the deadline and the calculation of the deadline arises. Of course, it is also necessary to check which national regulations should be applied at all. Do the regulations of the place of departure or arrival apply? The various compensation calculators you can find on the Internet will not be of any help here. 

But you need not despair. After all, the answer to this question is pleasantly simple. You can assert your passenger rights both in the country where you took off and in the country where you landed. Alternatively, it is also possible to enforce your rights in the country where the airline responsible has its headquarters. Consequently, you can hardly go wrong here. However, if you want to be on the side of caution, it is advisable to consult an expert. Flightright will be happy to enforce your claims. The following example illustrates how this can look in practice.

Let’s assume that you flew with Lufthansa from Munich to Stockholm. Unfortunately, you had to cope with a severe delay of three and a half hours. In this case, you have two different countries at your disposal in which you can assert your claim for compensation. Since Lufthansa’s headquarters are in Frankfurt am Main and you took off from Munich, you can opt for German law on the one hand. On the other hand, you landed in Stockholm, the capital of Sweden. Consequently, there is also the possibility of asserting your claim there. 

But how do you decide correctly in such cases? Once again, it may be worth taking a look at the limitation periods. If the three-year limitation period under German law has expired, you don’t have to bury your head in the sand. A claim can still be made in Sweden. Since the statute of limitations in this Scandinavian country is 10 years, you can assert your passenger rights there for much longer.

Flight delay compensation deadline: What time counts in the event of a flight delay, and how much compensation are you entitled to?

A delayed flight is annoying, and rightly so. But passengers do not just have to put up with this. On the contrary, they are entitled to compensation. This is the result of the EU Passenger Rights Regulation 261/2004. The amount of compensation depends on various factors. For example, EU air passenger law is based on the delay time as well as the distance of the flight. Your airline is also obliged to inform you comprehensively about the Air Passenger Rights Regulation.

Unfortunately, not all airlines comply with this obligation. Instead, passengers sometimes only find out about the legal options available in the event of a delay or cancellation in the small print. To ensure that you are well informed about your rights even if you have not been informed by your airline, we have put together a table of the individual compensation amounts.

How can I cover my future flight?

In most cases, airlines are obliged to pay compensation in the event of a delay of more than three hours or even cancellation. Unfortunately, many passengers still do not assert their right to compensation. Air passenger portals like Flightright are the right contacts in these cases. We stand up for your air passenger rights and make sure that you are compensated for your flight delay. You can calculate how much you are entitled to in detail in advance with the help of our compensation calculator. This way, a nuisance from your last flight can become an attractive down payment for your next holiday.  

Flying while pregnant: What you need to bear in mind when travelling by air

Having a baby is always a reason for great joy. But given the new addition to the family, some people naturally ask themselves whether they should rethink certain ways of life. This regularly includes the question of the right way to travel. With a growing belly, one is increasingly concerned not only about one’s health. Of course, one also worries about one’s offspring. Is flying still advisable at all? Since pregnancy lasts nine months, it is not possible to make any general statements that apply to the entire period.

Apart from the medical concerns, you must of course also pay attention to the airline’s regulations. After all, they always have certain rules for pregnant women. But there are sometimes significant differences between the individual airlines on this subject. In the following, we will take a closer look at what pregnant women have to bear in mind when traveling by air.

Can you fly when pregnant?

If you want to fly while pregnant, you should first inform yourself about the risks before you start your journey. After all, it is not only your health that plays a major role during pregnancy. With an embryo in your belly, you have to worry about two people at once. However, this does not mean that air travel is unthinkable for pregnant women.

Nevertheless, there are a few things to keep in mind. But should pregnant women fly? Whether flying is a good idea for a pregnant woman cannot be said in general terms. You have to decide on a case-by-case basis. In particular, the course of your pregnancy plays an immensely important role. If you are unsure, you should always consult your gynaecologist. His or her opinion carries the most weight, at least when it comes to health concerns.

Besides the question whether you should fly, however, there is also a completely different question. Are pregnant women allowed to fly? The combination of being pregnant and flying is possible in principle. However, certain conditions must be met. If your state of health does not speak against it, you can get on an aeroplane without restrictions up to the 28th week of pregnancy and follow your flight live. Pregnant women who are at least 28 weeks pregnant must have their fitness to fly certified. A certificate from your doctor or midwife can be used here. This certificate also clarifies the question: Can you fly when you are pregnant? 

The question whether it is allowed to fly when pregnant no longer arises for many pregnant women after the 30th week of pregnancy. Pregnant women should avoid flying at this point because of the cramped conditions in the cabin or the toilet. On the other hand, those who cannot say no to flying can, at least theoretically, board a plane up to the 35th week of pregnancy. Anything beyond that, however, is refused by most airlines. Since the airlines want to be on the safe side for insurance reasons, a simple medical certificate is usually no longer sufficient. For reasons of proof, they also require a maternity passport, which provides information about the pregnancy status. 

What risks do pregnant women face in the aircraft cabin? Contrary to common belief, it is not the oxygen pressure that can be dangerous for pregnant women at high altitudes. The only exception to this is women who are known to have an underactive placenta. However, a conscientious doctor would not permit them to fly. The greatest risk factor for all pregnant women on board an aircraft is immobility. Your blood circulation is already disturbed by the pregnancy. Since you can only move to a limited extent or not at all in the aircraft cabin, the risk of thrombosis is therefore significantly increased. 

If you are pregnant and want to take a flight, it is important that you at least take the risks into account. This includes some rules of conduct that will protect you from thrombosis. Probably the most important rule is: drink. It is best to keep your body hydrated throughout the flight. You risk having to go to the toilet more often, but it is important. It is also important to move around as much as possible. Even if space is limited, you should do what you can to be mobile. Stand up and tense your leg muscles from time to time. A practical aid that protects against thrombosis is to wear medical support stockings. 

Are you affected by an overbooking, flight delay, cancellation, or missed connection? Use our compensation calculator to check whether you can receive compensation for your problem flight and instruct Flightright conveniently online to enforce your claim. Check your flight now.

According to the EU Air Passenger Rights Regulation, the amount of compensation is calculated according to the flight route (distance):

What should a pregnant woman know before travelling by air? 

Pregnant and flying, what should I bear in mind? Many expectant mothers struggle with this question. And quite rightly so. After all, boarding an aircraft is not just about her health. Flying while pregnant is not in itself prohibited. Nevertheless, many pregnant women who fly ask themselves the question: What do I have to bear in mind? There are several rules for flying during pregnancy. If you are one of the lucky ones who have a problem-free pregnancy up to the 28th week of pregnancy, you do not have to worry about flying. Up to this point, you can travel by plane without any problems.

From the 28th week of pregnancy, however, most airlines require a certificate from your midwife or doctor. This must show that there are no health concerns that would prevent you from travelling by plane. To prove that your pregnancy has not progressed further, you should also carry your maternity passport with you. From the 30th week of pregnancy, this is even compulsory for a flight. If you are in the 35th week of pregnancy and even more advanced, however, you will not be allowed to fly with most airlines. The risks are too great.

In addition to the requirements of the airline, you should always keep health aspects in mind. For example, sufficient fluid intake and, if possible, plenty of exercise on board are essential to counteract the risk of thrombosis on board. It is best to talk to your doctor again in detail before each flight. He or she will know what is best for you and your child. If you follow the rules for flying during pregnancy, you usually don’t have to worry about yourself or your baby.

Which airline do you fly with? 

The rules around transporting pregnant women can differ from airline to airline. Depending on the airline, there are different conditions of carriage. Women who want to fly while pregnant should keep these in mind. If you are planning to fly during pregnancy, it is important to check the regulations of the airline in question beforehand. 

What should a medical certificate contain?

From the 28th week of pregnancy onwards, most airlines require you to present a certificate from your midwife or the doctor treating you. The certificate should not only state that a flight is medically safe for you as a pregnant woman. It is also important that the date of birth is mentioned on the certificate. This way, the airline can easily calculate which week of pregnancy you are in. By the way, there is a special rule if you are pregnant with multiples. In these cases, it is necessary for the doctor to explicitly confirm that a flight is possible without any problems until the end of the 28th week of pregnancy. 

How long can a pregnant woman fly? 

How long can a pregnant woman fly? This is a question asked by many pregnant women who are looking forward to having a baby but still want to go on holiday far away. Flying while pregnant is not a problem in itself. Each airline decides how long you can fly while pregnant. The best thing to do is to take a look at the relevant website and call the airline’s customer service. Here you will get an answer to the question: How long is a pregnant woman allowed to fly? Most airlines state that there is a general flight ban for pregnant women from the 35th week of pregnancy. 

Can you fly anywhere during pregnancy?

Theoretically, flying while pregnant is possible even if the destination is far away (long-haul or non-stop flight). But if you are pregnant and want to fly, there are a few points you should consider. In particular, wearing support stockings, drinking enough fluids and getting as much exercise as possible is essential. This way you can prevent the risk of a blood clot. 

Can a pregnant woman fly in the first 3 months?  

Flying while pregnant in the first 3 months is possible without any problems from the airlines’ point of view. However, if you ask a doctor, the answers will probably be different in many cases. Regarding the question ‘Can you fly in the 12th week’, many doctors will shake their heads. After all, the risk of miscarriage is very high when flying while pregnant in the first 3 months. If you want to fly while pregnant, you should avoid it at the beginning of your pregnancy if possible. In the so-called second trimester, being pregnant and flying go better together.

When is the ideal time to fly during pregnancy?

If possible, you should fly in the second trimester.  

Why are pregnant women not allowed to sit in the front of the plane?

Certain seats are off-limits for pregnant women on planes. These include the seats in the front and the seats by the emergency exits. This is a rule for safety reasons.

When should pregnant women not fly? 

The second trimester is the optimal time to fly during pregnancy. Flying when pregnant is hardly dangerous if you follow a few rules. This is true, at least in most cases. But why are you not allowed to fly during the first 12 weeks? And when can you fly when pregnant? In the first 12 weeks, the risk of miscarriage is too high. Conversely, you should not fly after the 35th week of pregnancy. The middle of pregnancy is therefore the most advisable time. 

In principle, air travel during pregnancy can be quite unproblematic under certain circumstances, but there are some things to bear in mind. In the first three months of pregnancy there is an increased risk of miscarriage, so flights should be avoided during this time if possible. Even after the third week of pregnancy, you should think carefully about whether a flight is absolutely necessary, as the strain on the body can increase during the flight.

However, it is possible to fly up to a certain point in pregnancy. Most airlines allow flights up to the 36th week of pregnancy, although there may be differences. Condor and EasyJet, for example, have special regulations for pregnant women who want to fly during their pregnancy. It is therefore advisable to check with the airline before booking and possibly present a medical certificate. At check-in, you should definitely point out that you are pregnant so that any restrictions or special measures can be taken into account.

Can you have a miscarriage if you fly?

Especially if you fly during the first 12 weeks, the risk of miscarriage is quite high. The fact that flying while pregnant is dangerous should be kept in mind at this time. 

Is radiation exposure dangerous for a pregnant woman or the baby?

No question that flying while pregnant can be dangerous. But the so-called cosmic radiation is one of the least dangerous risks. Although it is higher in the air than on the ground, you can safely disregard it. How harmful flying is during pregnancy should therefore not depend on this factor.

10 tips for a pleasant and relaxed flight during pregnancy

If you want to fly while pregnant, there are a few tips you should keep in mind. We have put together tips for women who want to fly while pregnant. 

Tips for flying during pregnancy:

There are many tips for flying during pregnancy. We have put together the most important ones for you. Here we go into tips before and during the flight. 

Before the flight:

• Do you have health insurance for abroad? If not, make sure you get one.
• Stay overnight in a hotel close to the airport before departure. This will save you stress.
• Use the online check-in
• Dress in loose and comfortable clothes

And when you finally board the plane:

• Choose an aisle seat to make going to the toilet easier
• Fasten your seat belt under your belly
• Do regular leg exercises to stimulate blood circulation
• Drink and eat enough
• Use a neck pillow to help you rest
• Use support stockings under your clothes

In which cases will I not be reimbursed for my flight ticket?

There can be many reasons why you cannot take a flight. In addition to the annoyance of not being able to fly on your well-deserved holiday, some people also experience other problems. It is not uncommon for air travellers not to be reimbursed for their flight tickets. We will explain in more detail how and why this can happen.

When am I not entitled to a flight ticket refund?

If you are unable to take a flight, a lot of money usually disappears without a trace. But this does not have to be the case. After all, in many cases, you are entitled to a flight ticket refund. But this does not always apply. A refusal to reimburse an airline ticket could hardly be more annoying. But when is a flight not eligible for reimbursement?

1. Exceptional circumstances

A flight ticket is not refundable if the airline cannot be held responsible due to extraordinary circumstances. A classic example are passengers who arrive late. Since the airline cannot be held responsible for the delay of passengers, it cannot be charged for it. Furthermore, an airline ticket is not refundable if force majeure such as a volcanic eruption or severe storm is the cause. Complex legal issues regularly arise here. After all, one always has to ask whether the airline had some influence on what happened or not. If the airline cannot substantiate that the circumstances were exceptional, there is usually a refund for the flight ticket.

It is anything but easy for the airline to conjure up extraordinary circumstances out of thin air. After all, they have the burden of proof in court. This means that they have to prove to the judge that the extraordinary circumstances were the cause of the problem. If this is not successful, one must assume that it could have been avoided. Especially in the case of delays, it is the airline’s task to emphasize that they did everything they could to arrive on time. That sounds easier than it is in practice. This makes it all the more important for passengers to assert their air passenger rights. After all, the claims are becoming more and more promising and the rulings are increasingly consumer-friendly.

2. Reduction in compensation payments

Sometimes the airline is entitled to pay only half of the compensation. This applies in the following special cases:

Flight delay:
If the flight is a long-haul flight with a distance of at least 3500 km, the airline has the right to reduce the compensation. This is the case if the delay was longer than three hours but less than four hours.

Canceled Flight:
Even if a flight is canceled, the airline can reduce the compensation payment. If the airline organizes a replacement flight, this naturally leads to delays. The length of the delay and the route of the flight again have an impact on the claim. In the case of a short-haul flight with a distance of up to 1500 km, the delay may not exceed two hours. Otherwise, there is a full claim for compensation against the airline. If, on the other hand, the delay is less than two hours, the airline may halve the claim.

The situation is similar for medium-haul flights with a distance of more than 1500 km and less than 3500 km. In these cases, if the flight arrives at its destination more than three hours late, a full refund is due. On the other hand, a reduction of 50 percent is due if the delay is less than three hours. Consequently, the possible delay increases again for long-haul flights with a distance of more than 3,500 km. Here, the airline may halve the refund if the delay does not exceed four hours.

Are you affected by an overbooking, flight delay, cancellation, or missed connection? Use our compensation calculator to check whether you can receive compensation for your problem flight and instruct Flightright conveniently online to enforce your claim. Check your flight now.

According to the EU Air Passenger Rights Regulation, the amount of compensation is calculated according to the flight route (distance):

3. Package tour holidaymakers also have a claim

With package holidays, you book entire travel packages. These include not only the accommodation, but also the flight. Consequently, you do not come into contact with the airline when booking. But does this harm compensation claims? Many travellers think that refusal of reimbursement from the airline ticket is the consequence. What is certain is that package travellers can also exercise their air passenger rights. This is stipulated in the Air Passenger Rights Regulation, which applies throughout Europe.

Thus, a compensation claim is already given for a delay of three hours or more. Particularly important in the context of package tours are flights whose departure time was rescheduled to be earlier than the original departure time. In this regard, the European Court of Justice (ECJ) issued a landmark ruling in 2021. According to this ruling, a booking that was rescheduled more than one hour prior to its original departure is equated with the cancellation of the flight. Experience shows that, especially in the area of package tours, earlier departure times occur due to spontaneous changes. This court ruling is all the more important.

The claims of package travellers can be divided into two different categories. On the one hand, those affected can reduce the travel costs vis-à-vis their tour operator. Furthermore, it is also possible to directly claim compensation for the ticket costs incurred against the airline. This is the case if the arrival was delayed by at least three hours, the flight was moved to an earlier departure time by at least one hour, or it was even cancelled altogether.

To ensure that package travellers are not better off than other air travellers when it comes to compensation for the flight ticket, the two claims are offset against each other. If, for example, a flight is cancelled, the affected package travellers can contact both the tour operator and the airline. If a refund payment is then made, the tour operator and airline take over the sum proportionately. Since it is always better to have two debtors, the procedure in the sense of the EU Air Passenger Rights Regulation is therefore more attractive than a mere claim for a reduction against the tour operator.

What to do if the air ticket is not refundable?

Of course, the question arises, what happens if the flight ticket is not refundable? One thing is certain: you should have your claim checked by an air passenger rights expert. Flightright’s legal experts will check whether you can get a refund for your flight ticket. If there is a claim for reimbursement, many airlines offer a practical contact form. This is not only quick, but also extremely convenient. This is particularly advisable if you want to file a claim against an airline based abroad, as it can be difficult to reach them by traditional mail.

If you prefer to send a letter, you can of course also use this method to assert your claims. Various forms can be found on the Internet. The letter should contain the most important data, such as the name and address of the passenger and details of the flight. If you decide to send a letter, be sure to send it by registered mail. This can serve as important evidence at a later date when it comes to exercising passenger rights within the time limit.

What rights do I have to get reimbursement of my flight ticket?

If your flight has been delayed or even cancelled, the question arises of how to get reimbursement. Probably the most important regulation of EU-wide scope is the EU Air Passenger Rights Regulation No. 261/2004, which provides for compensation in cases where the airline notifies the cancellation of the flight less than 14 days before departure. Should this be the case, air travellers can claim reimbursement of up to 600 euros. The claim applies to all EU flights operated by European airlines. EU flights are all those that take off and/or land in the EU.

If you want to stay on the flight despite the cancellation, you can also enforce this legally. You have the right to ask the airline to provide an alternative. The airline must then provide you with a replacement of the same value. Package travellers, on the other hand, can demand a replacement flight. If the airline does not provide a replacement, you can do so instead. You can then claim the costs incurred by the airline.

If all the stress about cancelled flights makes you lose your desire to travel, you can of course withdraw from the contract. In the course of this, you can demand a full refund of the price of the flight ticket. People who are left stranded halfway through their journey can also claim any additional costs. Indeed, if you have to take several flights in a row, you can ask for a return flight to the airport of departure.

How many days does the airline have to refund a passenger’s ticket?

It is common knowledge that unfortunately many airlines try to sit out a claim for air ticket reimbursement. This is where customer friendliness ends for many airlines. No matter whether it’s annoying hotlines with hours of waiting time or unanswered enquiries by e-mail. Airlines try everything possible to slow you down in asserting your claims. If the airline does respond at some point, they usually refer to extraordinary circumstances. It is therefore not surprising that some people wait years for a refund. You should not put up with this. With Flightright, you get a reliable partner at your side who supports you in enforcing your rights. We will insist that the airline in question meets the seven-day payment deadline stipulated in the EU Passenger Rights Regulation No. 261/2004.

What are the deadlines for flight delay compensation?

The time limit depends on the country in which you want to enforce your claim. While Germany has a time limit of 3 years, France has a time limit of 5 years. Find out more about the flight delay compensation time limit here.

When do airlines have to refund the full airfare?

The most lucrative cases for air travellers are those in which the airfare is fully refunded. But when does the full reimbursement of airline tickets take place? On the subject of reimbursement of airline tickets, Lufthansa has listed cases of full reimbursement on its website. This means that you will receive a refund in the event of a flight ticket cancellation. This means that, with Lufthansa, cancellation without replacement will result in reimbursement of the flight tickets. Furthermore, you are entitled to an air ticket refund if the flight is brought forward by more than one hour or is delayed by at least two hours. You are also entitled to a refund if your arrival is delayed by more than two hours.

How can I get a full refund for my flight ticket?

There are several ways to get your air ticket refund. It is always free of charge if you take care of the reimbursement yourself. However, experience has shown that this involves a lot of stress and time. Alternatively, you can hire experts at Flightright. But what does it cost to get a full refund for my flight ticket? If the airline pays your refund within seven days, our service is free of charge for you. For long-term refunds, you only have to pay for our service if your claim for a refund has been successfully enforced. Here we charge a commission of between 20 and 30 percent. 

Can my flight ticket be refunded in the event of a delay?

There can be many reasons for a delayed departure. A classic example is probably passengers who arrive too late. But how is air ticket reimbursement handled in the event of a delay? If the departure is delayed by at least five hours, you have a right to cancel the contract. In these cases, the airline must pay the full amount of the refund in case of cancellation of the flight ticket. 

Will I get my flight ticket back in the event of a strike?

Contrary to what many airlines would have their customers believe, a strike is by no means an exceptional circumstance. Quite the contrary. From the point of view of the ECJ (judgement of 23.3.2021, ref.: C-28/20), passengers can also demand air ticket reimbursement in the event of a strike by the EU Air Passenger Rights Regulation.

The most useful holiday and travel gadgets

Travel gadgets – Holiday gadgets: Our 15 best travel gadgets for holidays

Cool holiday gadgets are fun and make life easier. In the following table, we present the best holiday gadgets. To provide a better overview, we have divided the travel gadgets into those for women, men and children. This subdivision is for orientation purposes only. You are of course completely free to choose the holiday gadgets that best serve your purposes.

According to the EU Air Passenger Rights Regulation, the amount of compensation is calculated according to the flight route (distance):

#1 Travel Gadgets – Travel Safe 

Most of the time, you can’t avoid carrying one or two valuables with you. If you want to protect your valuables, a travel safe is a good idea. 

This way, your smartphone, laptop or wallet are optimally protected while travelling.

#2 First aid kit

Whether it’s an adventure or a family holiday. Injuries can always happen. Fortunately, most injuries can be treated with a well-stocked first aid kit. Therefore, this gadget is an absolute must for every traveller. 

#3 Travel Gadgets – Powerbank

Even though a break from the digital world would certainly do some travellers good, very few leave their smartphone behind. If you don’t want to do without technical devices when you’re on the road, you need power.  And to be honest, a smartphone is also very practical when travelling. Navigating, booking hotels or hostels, looking for activities, translating texts and much more can be done much more easily with technical support. With a power bank in your luggage, you don’t have to worry about suddenly being without a battery.

A compact power bank for on the go is therefore undeniably very practical. Before buying, you should think about what requirements you have for a power bank. Should it only be able to charge your mobile phone or also your laptop? In addition to classic models that need to be charged in a hotel, there is also a type for outdoor holidaymakers: a solar power bank is, as the name suggests, charged by the sun.

#4 Bluetooth Loudspeaker

A holiday without music? Hardly imaginable. With a portable Bluetooth speaker, you can enjoy music everywhere. Whether on the beach, around the campfire or in the comfort of your hotel room, with a Bluetooth speaker you don’t have to miss out on your favourite songs anywhere.

#5 Travel Gadgets – Suitcase Scales 

With your own small luggage scale, you can save yourself nasty surprises at the airport. You can easily weigh your luggage yourself and make sure for the return journey that the holiday souvenirs haven’t made your luggage too heavy.

#6 Travel pillow

Who doesn’t know it: neck tension during long journeys in the car and during long flights …

A travel pillow offers relief on such occasions. It increases comfort and is easy to take along. Most of the time it even fits in your hand luggage. If not, an inflatable travel pillow is recommended.

#7 Holiday gadgets – silicone bottles

If you’re flying on holiday, you have to comply with hand luggage regulations. Shampoos and conditioners in their normal sizes do not comply. Refillable silicone bottles you can fill yourself at home and save money. Small samples from brand manufacturers are usually disproportionately expensive.

#8 Travel Gadgets – Sting Healers

Especially if you are planning a holiday with a lot of nature, you can’t avoid insect bites.  This holiday gadget soothes the itching and pain of insect bites by applying heat to the affected area.

#9 Packing bags

Organizing your own luggage can be a real challenge, especially on long trips. If you have a large backpack or suitcase and need to find something, this is likely to mess up your entire luggage. With practical panniers, you can avoid the chaos and save yourself a long search.

#10 Cable ties

Cable ties are probably not the most exciting travel gadget. But they are very practical. Whether you want to protect the closure of your suitcase or keep your headphone cables from getting knotted, cable ties are ideal. If you find the usual disposable cable ties too boring, you can also reach for the colourful reusable version. There is an endless choice here.

#11 Extendable selfie stick 

A beautiful trip needs to be captured with even more beautiful photos. For this, a retractable selfie stick is the perfect travel gadget. For even better photos, photography enthusiasts can also get an attachable lens for smartphones.

#12 Gadgets for holidays – luggage locks

If you are concerned about the contents of your travel suitcase, a luggage lock can provide additional security. If the suitcase is locked with a luggage lock, potential thieves will have a much harder time removing individual items from their luggage.

#13 Waterproof smartphone case

Many smartphones today are already splash-proof. A waterproof smartphone case is still a really cool gadget for the beach. Because with such a case, the mobile phone can also be taken into the water! This way, great photos can also be taken of water activities.

#14 Torch

A torch is versatile and should not be missing in any travel luggage. Whether you want to tell scary stories around the campfire, play shadow games or simply see something on a night walk, you’ll be glad to have a torch with you.

#15 Travel Gadgets – Tiger Balm

Tiger Balm originated in China and can be purchased as a white or red ointment. The term Tiger Balm is a brand name. There are many remedies with the same or similar ingredients. The balm is said to be a small miracle cure for colds and joint problems. So as a gentle way to escape a drippy nose, this travel gadget is definitely recommended.

Bonus: Travel Organizer 

You haven’t stowed away all your travel gadgets yet? Then the last gadget we would like to present to you could be the solution. 

A travel organizer for even more travel gadgets!  With a travel organizer, you can keep all your travel essentials organized and have your most important gadgets close at hand.

Lufthansa strike – Travellers have these rights

In the event of a strike by pilots and/or cabin crew, as in the case of Lufthansa strikes, the travellers concerned are entitled to alternative flights and, if necessary, to compensation in the event of flight cancellation.

When were the last Lufthansa strikes?

Cancelled and delayed flights, as well as missing luggage: In the middle of the holiday season, the strike of Lufthansa pilots causes chaos at the airports. 

But what are the rights of travellers? In the following table, we offer you an overview of the previous strikes at the airline Lufthansa. Take a look and check with our compensation calculator whether you can receive compensation for your problem flight.

If you are affected by the Lufthansa strike and your flight is cancelled, you always have the right to choose between a ticket refund or replacement transportation, which Lufthansa must offer you. If you arrive at your destination with a delay of more than three hours, you can claim up to 600 euros in compensation from the airline. If your flight is cancelled directly, you may also be entitled to compensation of up to 600 euros, provided that Lufthansa has informed you of the cancellation less than 14 days before departure.

Lufthansa and the other airlines in the Lufthansa Group have not performed particularly well this summer. In a ranking compiled by Flightright on flight cancellations in the summer of 2022, Lufthansa was well ahead of airlines such as EasyJet and Ryanair, with over 3,600 flights cancelled.

Have you booked a Lufthansa flight that is affected or likely to be affected by the Lufthansa strikes? You can check your flight status at any time here.

Why are Lufthansa pilots on strike?

Pilots, flight attendants, ground staff – every few months there is a strike at one airline or another. The most common reason for a strike is salary negotiations. Through the strike, airline employees use the strike as leverage for higher salaries. However, a strike by staff is usually preceded by failed negotiations with the employer.

In this case, the airline employees try to push through higher wages or better working conditions with the employer and use the strike as a means of exerting pressure.

Lufthansa pilots also try to improve their position in salary negotiations by going on strike.

What rights do passengers have during the Lufthansa strike?

• Lufthansa is obligated to arrange substitute transportation for air travellers at the earliest possible time.
• In the event of long waiting times at the airport, Lufthansa air travellers are entitled to care in the form of drinks, meals, telephone calls and overnight hotel stays. 
• If a flight is delayed or cancelled by more than 5 hours, air travellers can demand the ticket price. Also entitled to compensation of up to 600 euros.

Are you affected by a flight delay, flight cancellation or flight cancellation?

What am I entitled to under EU regulations in the event of a flight cancellation with Lufthansa?

• If a Lufthansa flight is cancelled less than 14 days before departure, air travellers may be entitled to compensation of between €250 and €600 per person under the EU Air Passenger Rights Regulation. 
• Lufthansa Airlines must also either refund the ticket costs or offer free replacement transportation.
• When purchasing a new ticket, passengers are entitled to reimbursement for the more expensive ticket.
• In Germany, passengers: inside have 3 years to claim compensation.
• In exceptional circumstances, compensation may be waived up to €600, but entitlement to ticket reimbursement or replacement transportation remains.
• Note: Every EU country has its own rules about how much time you have to enforce your claim. In Germany, for example, your compensation claim is valid for up to 3 years. In the UK, it’s 6! Most countries offer a generous time period in which to submit your claim, but watch out for Sweden: Swedish claims must be submitted within two months of the flight incident. We can tell you how much time you have to enforce your claim or you can find out for yourself, quickly and easily, using our compensation calculator.

What are my rights in case of a flight delay with Lufthansa Airline?

• From 2 hours of waiting time, air travellers are entitled to be provided with drinks and snacks by the airline, in this case, the airline Lufthansa.
• For delays of 3 hours or more at the final destination, passengers are entitled to compensation of between €250 and €600.
• Children with their own seats are entitled to compensation payments.

Where can I find my flight number and what is it used for?

Every day, almost 200,000 aircraft take to the skies worldwide to transport passengers or goods from A to B. The number of each flight is assigned a corresponding number. To keep track of them all, each flight is assigned an appropriate number. Logically, this is called a flight number. Although it is supposed to provide a better overview for air travelers, it often leads to confusion among them. “Where can I find the flight number?”, many people ask. How to find out your flight number and where to look for it, we will show you below.

What is the flight number?

Since thousands and thousands of airplanes cross the sky every day, you need an instrument to be able to assign them. The flight number has come into being as a more than suitable ordinal number. But what is a flight number? The usually six- or seven-digit combination of letters and numbers can be found on the boarding pass, for example. It always starts with the so-called IATA code. This is made up of letters and numbers and is reserved exclusively for the airline under whose flag the aircraft is departing.

The flight number kills several birds with one stone. On the one hand, it provides passengers with more orientation, and on the other, it helps them to keep track of their flights at large airports such as Frankfurt Airport, from which almost 100 planes take off within an hour. On large display panels, each flight number can be assigned to the appropriate gate. But the flight number is not only helpful at the airport itself. In the digital age, you also need it to check in conveniently in advance on the Internet. When sorting flight numbers, various aspects apply. In particular, parameters such as the duration of the flight or the region play a role.

Are you affected by an overbooking, flight delay, cancellation, or missed connection? Use our compensation calculator to check whether you can receive compensation for your problem flight and instruct Flightright conveniently online to enforce your claim. Check your flight now.

According to the EU Air Passenger Rights Regulation, the amount of compensation is calculated according to the flight route (distance):

What does a flight number look like?

Since there are a few numbers on a boarding pass, some people look in vain for the flight number on the ticket. But it is not that difficult to find. After all, airlines nowadays make every effort to ensure that you can find this important combination of numbers quickly, even in stressful airport situations. If you still can’t find it, or it’s not recognizable because of stains or printing errors, there are other sources for the flight number. For example, it can usually be found on a normal flight ticket. Alternatively, it is worth taking a look at the booking confirmation, for here you will find it, too.

Most airlines mark the flight number with the suffix “Flight”. Some German airlines even explicitly say “flight number”. Unfortunately, airlines have not agreed on a uniform positioning of the flight number. If it is in the top left-hand corner of one boarding pass, it may be in the bottom right-hand corner of another airline’s ticket. There is, however, a promising trick that will help you to recognize a flight number straight away. All you have to do is remember how it is structured. It is always made up of large letters or letters and numbers at the beginning, followed by four or five numbers.

How do I find the flight number?

It is advisable not to look for the flight number at the airport. It is better to take a look at your travel documents at home and find the flight number there. By the way, there are several ways to find out the flight number. Below, we list the different possibilities for you.

Boarding pass

The most classic and obvious source for the flight number is undoubtedly the boarding pass. You should always have it handy at the airport anyway. To find the flight number, all you have to do is look for terms like “flight” on the ticket. Alternatively, you only need to know how a flight number is made up. It consists of capital letters at the beginning, followed by a four- to five-digit combination of numbers.

Booking confirmation

Since nowadays, a large part of all travel in general and flights, in particular, are booked online, you can also take a look at the documents. Thanks to e-mail, you can browse through the documents even if you have forgotten the printed documents at home. In addition to the booking confirmation from the airline, it usually also sends you a so-called e-ticket. This not only has a practical QR code that gives you access to the plane. You will also find the flight number here.

However, when searching for the flight number, you should also keep in mind that there might be some confusion. After all, it sometimes happens that air travelers confuse their flight numbers with other number combinations. It is particularly common to confuse it with the online booking code. This combination of numbers and letters, also known as the “booking reference”, also has six digits, which is why it is quite similar to a flight number. Unfortunately, this code does not help you to find your flight number.

So finding the right flight number is not really complicated. We can only warmly recommend that you take a look at the flight number at home before departure. This will save you unnecessary stress at the airport. But what about multiple flights? Especially when traveling to distant destinations (long-haul or non-stop flights), you often have to change planes. It is also often the case that different airlines are used. If you want to get to your destination on two different flights, you will of course get different flight numbers.

Where is the flight number located?

There are different places where you can find the flight number. Of course, the number-letter combination is on the flight ticket itself. But what if you can’t find it straight away? Fortunately, there are other ways to get the flight number. A look at the booking confirmation can also help. If you use the internet and book a trip online, you will receive the most important documents by e-mail. In addition to the payment and booking confirmation, this also includes the so-called e-ticket, which is a digital ticket for check-in. It also contains the flight number.

Since not every airline uses the same layout for its boarding pass, this can sometimes lead to confusion. But even without a detective’s intuition, you can usually find the flight number quickly and easily. Many airlines provide the flight number with an appropriate heading such as “Flight”, “Flight number” or “Flight”. On the boarding pass, this is usually on the left-hand side. It is also easy to find the flight number in online documents such as booking confirmations and e-tickets. If you are worried about this, we can only advise you to find the flight number early.

While you are searching for the flight number, the question can of course quickly arise as to why it exists in the first place. First, let us clarify how the combination of numbers and letters is explained. The two letters at the beginning form, so to speak, an abbreviation of the airline you are traveling with. An example is Lufthansa, which is abbreviated in the flight number with “LH” at the beginning. However, since most passengers will certainly know which airline they are flying with, the degree of information provided by this is certainly limited.

The letters only really acquire a meaning in combination with the numbers. For example, you can use the flight number to find out in advance whether your flight might be delayed. The same applies to your friends and family. If you are in the air with your plane, you will not be able to send messages if your smartphone is switched off. So you cannot inform a potential pick-up person about delays. However, with the help of the flight number, others can also find out via flight trackers whether a delay is imminent.

While the combination of letters at the beginning of the flight number may make sense quickly, you have to dig a little deeper for the numbers that follow. These have more to do with the region in which you want to take off or land. Sometimes you may need the flight number even after you have already boarded. If the boarding pass is missing in this case, the question arises as to how you can get the flight number afterward. In this case, it is worth taking another look at the booking confirmation. Since this is certainly still in your e-mail inbox or in your document file at home, you can still get the flight number even after you have started your journey.

However, if you are also missing these documents, you don’t have to throw your hands up in horror. There are websites such as Flightstats that can help you find out the flight number even after the flight. All you have to do is enter the departure and arrival data. However, it is advisable to keep documents such as booking confirmations. After all, such services also cost money after a certain period of time has passed since the flight.

Is the booking number the flight number?

A trip usually also involves a lot of paperwork. Fortunately, the digital age ensures that you no longer have to march to the check-in counter with a stack of paper. But regardless of whether you want to bring your documents with you in paper form or conveniently present them via smartphone – the important thing is that they are available to you in presentable form. In addition to the flight number, the booking number also plays a major role. For some people, however, having both a booking number and a flight number can lead to a great deal of confusion. After all, the airlines also rely on so-called IATA codes when assigning their booking numbers. These are made up of letters and numbers – just like a flight number. But what is the difference?

While the flight number helps passengers to find their way around the airport, the booking number is more important for the airline. After all, with its help, they can see the most important information about every booking. Unlike a flight number, which is valid for each individual passenger, the airline only assigns a number to each booking. If families are traveling and several seats have been reserved with one booking, only one number will be assigned accordingly. If you have booked an outward and return flight at the same time, you will also have the same booking number for both flights.

The booking number is most important for you when you check in at the airport. This is where they check which services you are entitled to. If you want to check in online in advance, you will of course also need the flight number. An extremely important document that you must not forget among all the numbers is your ID card. This will be checked together with your booking at check-in. If everything has gone according to plan, you will be given your boarding pass. This will contain a summary of the most important flight data.

Can the flight number change?

There is one thing that should be avoided at the airport, and that is stress. After all, it can spoil your holiday mood even before you start your journey. But what happens if the flight number suddenly changes? This is certainly where many people get anxious. And for good reason. After all, an airline only has to change the flight number if a flight is canceled. In the case of a mere delay, the flight number remains the same.

Here is an overview of the most important airline letter combinations: