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Airline Compensation Rules
Many people are unaware of their rights when it comes to flight disruptions – whether it be a flight delay, a cancellation, or a denied boarding – but luckily, all passengers have the possibility to be compensated by their airline in many cases.
The Canada Transport Agency sets binding regulations and guidelines for all carriers operating in the country. The regulations outline that, in certain circumstances, an airline may be required to provide compensation to its passengers for disruption-related damages.
The main factors for airline compensation are `flight distance,’ and `delay length.’
- Flights of up to 1,500 km must be compensated if the delay is 2 hours or more.
- Flights within Canada that exceed 1,500 km or international flights are compensated for delays over 3 hours.
- You can even be entitled to compensation if you are denied boarding due to overbooking.
Largest Compensation Payment
The largest known flight compensation that has individually been paid to a single passenger was in 2014, when a US Airways customer received US$1.1 million in compensation. A lawyer had argued that the payment was necessary due to the fact that the customer had suffered significant financial losses due to the disruption while he was stuck at an airport in the United States.
The size of the settlement is significantly higher than the normal flat rate EU law imposes for delayed flight compensation for passengers. Under EU laws, passengers are generally entitled to compensation for flights departing from a European airport or operating within the EU if the delay is three hours or more and the airline is at fault. The maximum amount of compensation under EU law is approximately €600.
Individual Compensation and Claims Process
When it comes to assessing and subsequently awarding individual compensation, the amount ultimately received is invariably proportional to the amount of evidence that is provided. Documented evidence, such as receipts, tax returns, and other details, will help establish the amount of loss suffered.
For individuals to make a claim for compensation, the process is relatively straightforward and can be done online. The passenger is required to provide information regarding their travel (flight number, flight date, etc.), and provide details on the circumstances of their claim and documents to support their case. They then must wait for a confirmation from the airline or broker responsible for handling compensation claims.
Airlines Payment for Damages
The amount of compensation is ultimately determined by the airline, or the designated broker or claims management company, and any amount awarded will be considered a full and final settlement, releasing the airline of any liabilities.
Airlines generally settle claims quickly, however, in more complex cases, the process can take longer to resolve. Airlines are often willing to increase the amount offered in order to avoid going to court and any further delays, however, the amount of settlement may not necessarily reflect the actual losses incurred by the passenger.
Conclusion
The largest known flight compensation to a single individual was US$1.1 million paid to a US Airways customer in 2014 due to extraordinary financial losses suffered as a result of a disruption. Airline compensation rules vary from country to country and passengers should familiarize themselves with their rights in case of flight disruption to help them determine if they are eligible for compensation. It is relatively easy to make a claim for compensation and the amount that is awarded will ultimately depend on the amount of evidence provided. Airlines are generally willing to settle claims quickly, pressuring passengers into accepting a low settlement in order to avoid any further delays.
Ultimately, when you are familiar with air passenger rights and believe you may be entitled to delayed or cancelled flight compensation, find out which best flight compensation companies can help you. You may also fill out the claim form and one of the agencies will check your flight and take your case.