Airline caused missed international flight. What are my options?
I recently took an international flight booked through United from the US to the EU and back (with a connecting flight both ways) and on the way back they lost our ticket/reservation and we missed our original flights and arrived almost 12 hours later than originally scheduled.
I'm wondering what laws/regulations are in place to protect and compensate passengers who were caused to miss flights due to issues that are the fault of the airlines.
I've read up as much as I can on EU and US transportation rights but I'm having trouble finding explicit sections that support amounts of compensation and was hoping to get some help on people that might have more experience here.
I looked at the Involuntary Bumping section here, which seems good, but the more references I have the better.
Best Answer
As your flight originated in the EU, the rules of Flight Compensation Regulation 261/2004 (EU261) apply.
If there are no other issues which may be your fault (arriving too late at the airport for instance), or extraordinary circumstances (a strike by ATC staff for instance), a delay of 12 hours means the airline owes you a compensation of €400 (if the distance was up to 3500 km) or €600 (above 3500 km).
Check the details of the regulation of exceptions and limitations.
Pictures about "Airline caused missed international flight. What are my options?"
What happens if an airline makes you miss your flight?
Many airlines will let you standby for a later flight for free if you miss your flight, whether under the airline's standby policy or otherwise. It's always worth explaining your situation and asking the gate agent to add you to the waitlist if they can't confirm you on the next flight.What happens if you miss an international flight?
If you fail to show up for your scheduled flight, you'll fall into the \u201cno show\u201d category, meaning that the airline can cancel the rest of your itinerary, leaving you with minimal options for refunds or rebooking.Can you get a refund for a missed flight?
Can I get a refund for a missed flight? You generally cannot receive a refund for a missed flight, even if accidental. The airline may rebook you on another flight, though there may be a change fee.Is airline responsible for missed connection?
What happens if a flight is delayed and you miss your connection? If you miss your connection due to a delay, usually the airline is responsible for providing you with a replacement flight to your destination. They will have to book you on the earliest possible flight available.Airline Refunds - Flight Cancelled? Know Your Rights!
Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Images: Andrea Piacquadio, Andrea Piacquadio, Andrea Piacquadio, Andrea Piacquadio