Can you say no to flight changes? Lena and Thomas share their story

Flight Times Changed: Cancellation by Passenger or Airline

Cancellation by Passenger – Personal Cancellation

Whenever travellers wish to change their flight times or cancel their flights for personal reasons, the cancellation policies of the respective airline or travel organiser are of significance. Depending on the specific conditions and the type of fare booked, cancellation or rebooking fees may apply.

Cancellation by the Airline

If an airline or travel organiser cancels a flight or significantly changes the flight times, passengers have certain rights and may be entitled to compensation. These rights are established under EU Regulation 261/2004, commonly known as the Passenger Rights Regulation.

Flight Time Change or Cancellation?

First and foremost, it’s crucial to verify whether it’s genuinely a change in flight times or an outright cancellation. Sometimes airlines disguise cancellations as mere time changes to skirt different regulations. A simple way to identify this is to check if the new flight retains the same flight number as the old one. If not, it’s a cancellation.

My Flight Now Departs from Another Airport – Can I Cancel for Free?

Indeed, this situation is treated as a flight cancellation. You have the right to withdraw from the contract without any charge and receive a full refund of the flight price. However, before making a decision, it’s wise to check the costs for a replacement flight.

Flight Time Changes – What you need to know

Within 0 to 7 Days of Departure: If the airline informs you of a change in flight times within this window, you are entitled to compensation if the arrival is more than 2 hours later than planned and the departure is no more than 1 hour earlier than scheduled.

Within 8 to 14 Days of Departure: Should the airline notify you in this period, you have the right to compensation if your arrival is more than 4 hours later than planned and your departure is no more than 2 hours earlier than scheduled.

Flight Time Change Notice	Altered ETA	Compensation?
More than 14 days prior departure	“Flight cancelled”	no claim possible
7 – 14 days prior departure	Departed not more than [2h too early] and arrived more than [4h late]	claimable
7 – 14 days prior departure	Departed not more than [2h early] and arrived not more [4h late]	no claim possible
0 – 7 days prior departure	Departed not more than [1h too early] and arrived more than [2h late]	claimable
0 – 7 days prior departure	Departed not more than [1h early] and arrived not more [2h late]	no claim possible

Do Passengers have to accept all airline changes? – Lena and Thomas’s experience

1. The Situation / The Problem

“Help, our flight to South Africa has been changed. What now?” Cries for help like this are common in travel forums as holiday season approaches.

Lena and Thomas, a young couple from Berlin, had been looking forward to their well-deserved dream holiday in South Africa for months. Everything seemed perfectly planned: the suitcases were packed, excitement was in the air, and the countdown to departure had begun. But then, just before their planned departure, they received a message that threw their travel plans into disarray—a change in flight times.

Instead of departing as planned at 10:30 AM, Lena and Thomas were now set to leave at 6:50 PM. This delay of more than three hours also had implications for their arrival time, causing a delay of over three hours at their destination. Their holiday joy quickly evaporated as they faced this unexpected flight time change.

Lena and Thomas initially responded with confusion and anger. How could the airline change their flight times at such short notice without prior announcement? They had already planned their activities at the destination, and this change threatened to derail their entire itinerary.

Despite their frustration over the unexpected change in flight times, Lena and Thomas had no choice but to accept the delay and proceed with their journey. The reason was that they were invited to an important event, and it was crucial for them to arrive on time.

2. Hassle with the Airline – Rejected Compensation Claim

After returning from their trip, Lena and Thomas decided to take steps to seek adequate compensation for the inconvenience and lost time they endured. Passengers affected by flight delays are entitled to compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004.

However, obtaining this compensation proved to be more complicated than anticipated. The airline’s customer service was difficult to reach, and when Lena finally managed to speak to someone, she was burdened with a significant amount of bureaucratic paperwork. They had to provide their travel dates and flight tickets, navigate through numerous forms, and endure endless waiting times for customer service.

After several days of struggling for their compensation, Lena and Thomas received news that their claim had been rejected. The airline claimed that the flight time changes were due to extraordinary circumstances (lack of crew, sick pilot) and therefore they were not liable for compensation. Lena and Thomas were disappointed and frustrated that their efforts to secure compensation were in vain.

3. The Fight Continues: Support from Flightright

Nevertheless, Lena and Thomas did not give up. They searched online for ways to enforce their compensation claim. After some time, Thomas remembered that his relative Mareike had experienced a similar situation with an airline. Thomas immediately contacted Mareike. Fortunately, Mareike had a similar experience with another airline in the summer of 2022. Flightright had successfully helped Mareike. She recommended that Lena and Thomas turn to the passenger rights portal Flightright to enforce their claims.

4. The Solution: Flightright Steps In – Flight Delay Compensation

To check their eligibility for compensation, Lena and Thomas used the free compensation calculator from Flightright. This handy tool allowed them to input their flight details and instantly determine if they were entitled to compensation. After confirming their claim, they decided to authorise Flightright to enforce their rights.

Flightright took on Lena and Thomas’s case and re-examined their flight details to ensure they met all the criteria for compensation. Once their claim was confirmed, Flightright initiated legal action and began negotiating with the airline on the couple’s behalf.

After several weeks of intensive negotiations, Flightright successfully secured compensation for Lena and Thomas. They each received compensation of €600 (~£520) (minus a commission, typically 20 to 30% plus VAT) in accordance with the EU Passenger Rights Regulation for the flight delay and resulting inconvenience.

It might seem complicated to claim compensation for a change in flight times. And it is if one tries to do it directly with the airline. Airlines have no great interest in compensating passengers financially, often leading to rejected or ignored claims.

With Flightright as a partner, passengers can sit back and let us do the work. We successfully enforce their claims while they enjoy their day or prepare for their next trip. Simply use our compensation calculator to see if you have a claim in just a few minutes. If you are eligible, we handle your flight delay compensation without any bureaucracy or paperwork. Demand your compensation today!

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions: Do Passengers Have to Accept Airline Changes?

In this FAQ, you’ll find answers to common questions regarding flight time changes. Discover your rights without the hassle.

What Grounds Do You Have for Compensation When Flight Times Change?

Passengers often find themselves in the lurch due to unexpected changes in flight times. Unfortunately, such notifications are frequently issued far too late. The EU Passenger Rights Regulation 261/2004 lays down clear rules for flight rescheduling and time changes. In many scenarios, passengers may be entitled to compensation of up to €600 (~£520) per person.

What Constitutes a Flight Change?

A flight change signifies a modification to the air travel contract. This could manifest as a rescheduled flight, a rebooking, or outright cancellation. These changes are alterations to the planned flight details made by the airline. Various factors might lead to a flight alteration, such as inclement weather, technical issues, staffing shortages, or operational tweaks.

A flight change can affect the departure time, arrival time, aircraft type, or even the entire flight schedule. In such cases, airlines inform passengers about the changes and offer alternatives like a replacement flight or a full refund. It’s essential for passengers to provide their contact details when booking so they can be informed about any flight modifications.

What Types of Flight Time Changes Exist?

There are several types of flight time changes, such as:

• Departure time changes (earlier or delayed departure)
• Arrival time changes (earlier or delayed arrival)
• Layover adjustments
• Stopovers or reroutes

These changes can occur on short notice or be announced well in advance.

Are Airlines Allowed to Change Flight Times at Will?

Airlines and travel agencies can indeed alter flight times, but they are obligated to inform travellers in a timely manner. Depending on existing laws, regulations, and the General Terms and Conditions of the travel contract, travellers may be entitled to a fare reduction, rebooking, or a full refund if significant flight time changes occur.

When Can Flight Time Changes Be Refused?

Passengers can reject flight time changes if these significantly disrupt their travel plans. This might be the case if the change leads to a missed connecting flight or disrupts important business or personal appointments. In such situations, passengers have the right to refuse the flight change and demand appropriate compensation.

When Must Flight Time Changes Be Accepted?

Generally, passengers are required to accept flight time changes if they are deemed reasonable. Reasonableness can vary and depends on factors such as the duration of the delay and applicable laws and regulations. For considerable flight time changes, passengers might be entitled to a fare reduction, rebooking, or a full refund.

Was the Flight Time Change Clearly Communicated by the Airline?

How were you informed about the flight time change? Your airline or travel organiser is responsible for communicating any time changes clearly. This means notifying you via phone, SMS, or email. Notifications through an app that can easily disappear or are hard to trace are not acceptable.

Flight Time Change or Flight Delay?

How can one distinguish between a flight time change and a mere delay? Good question. It’s not always straightforward, but there are some clues. For instance, if the flight is rescheduled at short notice or the flight number changes, it typically indicates a flight time change. Conversely, if the flight number remains the same and the departure is shifted to a later time, it’s likely a delay. Sometimes airlines may try to present a flight time change as a delay to avoid compensation for delays of less than three hours. If in doubt, it’s recommended to check if you have a claim for compensation due to the shifted flight time.

Rights for Flight Time Changes: Which Flights Are Covered by EU Regulation 261/2004?

EU Regulation 261/2004 sets out the rights related to flight time changes. This regulation applies to the following flights:

• Flights with departure and destination airports within the EU.
• Flights departing from the EU, regardless of the destination.
• Flights arriving in the EU from outside the EU, provided that the airline operating the flight is a European carrier.

Despite the clear legal framework, some airlines still attempt to evade their obligations. It is therefore crucial for air travellers to be aware of their rights and the compensation options available when flight times change.

What Determines the Compensation Amount for a Flight Time Change?

Is one entitled to compensation if the flight times change? What are the conditions for compensation in such cases? Under EU Regulation 261, passengers may have the right to compensation if their flight times are altered. This regulation safeguards air travellers and guarantees specific rights for delays, cancellations, and other flight disruptions. The eligibility for compensation heavily relies on the notification period given for the flight time change. Here’s an overview of the rules:

1. Flight Time Change: 0 to 7 Days Before Departure

If passengers are informed of a time change within seven days before departure and the flight departs more than one hour earlier or arrives over two hours later at the destination, they are entitled to full compensation.

2. Flight Time Change: 8 to 14 Days Before Departure

If passengers are informed of changes between eight and fourteen days before departure, they are still entitled to compensation. However, the compensation amount is reduced to 50% of the full amount if the flight departs more than two hours earlier or arrives over four hours later at the destination. This rule takes into account the longer notice period available for passengers to adjust their plans.

3. Flight Time Change More Than 14 Days Before Departure

If airlines or travel organisers inform their customers of a flight time change more than 14 days in advance, there is no entitlement to compensation. This rule assumes that passengers have ample time to adjust their travel plans.

• 0 to 7 Days Before Departure – Entitled to compensation (if departure is one hour earlier or arrival two hours later)
• 8 to 14 Days Before Departure – Entitled to compensation (if departure is two hours earlier or arrival four hours later)
• More Than 14 Days Before Departure – No entitlement

What Can Be Done If a Flight Is Delayed?

Passengers have several options if their flight is delayed:

• Request a travel price reduction.
• Ask for a rebooking on an alternative flight.
• Demand a full refund of the travel price.
• Claim compensation for delays or cancellations not caused by extraordinary circumstances.

Flight Delayed: Claiming Compensation

If a flight is delayed and one wants to claim compensation for the flight time change, certain conditions must be met:

• Timely check-in: Passengers must have checked in at the airport on time.
• The flight must not be older than three years.
• The flight must have departed from or landed in the EU.

Compensation for Rebooking: What Is the Amount?

The compensation amount for flight rebookings depends on various factors, primarily the distance flown, rather than ticket costs. The compensation amount is set according to the passenger rights and varies based on the flight distance:

• Short Haul up to 1,500 kilometres: €250 (~£210) per person
• Medium Haul 1,500 to 3,500 kilometres: €400 (~£340) per person
• Long Haul over 3,500 kilometres: €600 (~£520) per person

Check your claim in 2 minutes

Check now for free

Handling the Delay of a Return Flight

Sometimes travellers learn about significant changes to their return flight during their holiday. In such cases, several options are available:

Travel Price Reduction: A delayed return flight can be considered a travel defect. Travellers should immediately inform their travel organiser and demand a solution. If the organiser fails to provide a remedy, passengers can request a price reduction.

Book an Alternative Flight: An alternative is to independently book another flight at the original departure time and charge the additional costs to the travel organiser. However, this option is less popular among travellers as it requires upfront payment for the replacement flight and subsequently seeking reimbursement from the organiser, possibly even through legal means.

Important: Determining compensation for a disrupted flight can be complex. We’re here to help. Let us evaluate and clarify your compensation claim!

Exceptional Circumstances: Are Compensation Claims Valid?

In cases of exceptional circumstances like a storm or political instability, flight time changes may occur. In such situations, the airline or travel organiser is not liable and no compensation is due. The airline is not responsible for the time change as the disruption’s cause lies beyond their control. Learn more about exceptional circumstances and when compensation claims are valid.

Who Helps When the Airline Doesn’t Pay?

Many travellers find themselves asking, “What if the airline doesn’t help? What if they refuse to pay?” Fear not! Flightright is here to assist. As a leading consumer portal, we champion your passenger rights under EU Regulation 261/2004. We stand by your side in cases of flight delays, cancellations, rebookings, or denied boarding—even taking your case to court if necessary. Our flight rights experts also help with ticket refunds and reimbursements for cancelled package holidays. With a success rate of 99%, Flightright offers a free compensation calculator to check your entitlement. The process is straightforward, swift, and risk-free for you.

Conclusion: How to Handle Flight Time Changes

Thanks to the support of Flightright, Lena and Thomas successfully secured compensation for their unexpected flight time change. Their story highlights the importance of knowing your rights as an air passenger and taking appropriate action in case of delays or cancellations. The EU Passenger Rights Regulation protects travellers against unexpected changes in flight times, granting them the right to compensation if certain conditions are met.

If facing a flight time change, consider the following steps:

1. Get a written confirmation from the airline detailing the flight problem.
2. Request necessary assistance at the airport to cater to your needs.
3. Check if you’re eligible for compensation using Flightright’s free compensation calculator.
4. If your claim is validated, instruct Flightright to pursue your rights.

Lena and Thomas’s experience shows that even well-planned trips can face derailment due to flight time changes. Their situation underscores the value of being informed about your passenger rights and seeking help from specialists like Flightright to assert those rights.

It’s evident that passenger rights, under EU Regulation 261/2004, protect against flight delays, time changes, and cancellations. Yet, the specific provisions can be perplexing for the uninitiated. Directly enforcing your rights with airlines requires persistence and patience. Often, carriers cite extraordinary circumstances or offer vouchers that fall short of the potential compensation of up to 600€ (~£520) per person.

At Flightright, we’re seasoned in navigating the intricacies and dodges of airlines. We champion your rights, operating on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis—meaning there’s no financial risk for you. No compensation, no fee (you pay only if we win)!

Lastly, even if your flight is punctual, always ensure you’re at the check-in counter on time. In cases of overbooking or denied boarding, you could still be entitled to compensation. Be aware of your rights and make the most of them to ensure your travels are as smooth as possible. Safe journeys!

How can Flightright help you?

Flightright is here to help you claim compensation for flight delays. We aim to make the process straightforward and stress-free. We also take into account special circumstances, such as denial of boarding due to illness or disability. Our experts leverage their extensive knowledge of EU passenger rights to secure the compensation you deserve. Visit our website to quickly check your eligibility and enforce your rights.

Your trip is well planned and the children are sleeping peacefully, but now the airline is getting in the way of your holiday happiness? Your flight is overbooked, delayed or cancelled? Has your luggage been delayed or lost?

According to the UK261 Legislation, passengers are entitled to compensation in the event of a delay, cancellation, overbooking, or missed connection. They can receive up to £520 compensation per person (minus the success commission). This compensation is independent of the ticket price. Flightright enforces your right for you. If necessary also in court.

Tip: Flightright helps you to enforce your passenger rights! With us, you can check your claims free of charge in two minutes. ✔️Easy, ✔️fast ✔️& without risk

As the market-leading consumer portal, Flightright fights for the enforcement of air passenger rights. We stand up for your rights in the event of a flight delay, cancellation or denied boarding and refer to the UK261 Regulation. Flightright’s air passenger rights experts are also happy to help you with ticket refunds and refunds for cancelled package holidays.

Check your right for compensation now !

As experts in the field of air passenger rights, we enforce your right to compensation against the airline!