Although many people experience flight delays or cancellations, getting compensation for these delays isn’t easy. Airlines aren’t responsible for weather-related problems, but there are multiple reasons for a flight-related problem. Since airlines are unlikely to willingly offer compensation for any problems, being proactive is important. Whether you’ve had major or minor problems during, before, or after a flight, here are a few ways to get compensation for airline-related problems.
Take Notes
If something goes wrong while you’re flying, take detailed notes. Having good attention to detail can make or break your chances of getting compensation. Note down times and any relevant details. You should also write down the names of any staff members you interact with. If relevant, you should also take photos as needed. For example, if your complaint relates to anything broken or damaged, take a photo for proof.
Ask Early
Although you can receive compensation after the event, it’s often much easier to resolve a situation when you’re experiencing it. If things go wrong while you’re at the airport or even on the plane, ask for what you want or need right away. Always remain calm in these scenarios but ask for a supervisor as needed. You can often receive a better response when dealing with a person face-to-face. Higher-level service crew may be able to provide compensation in-person so don’t be afraid to ask.
Get Help
If you’ve had a delayed or cancelled flight, then you may be eligible for compensation. But before you start seeking compensation, you should know if you’re eligible in the first place. If you are leaving for or from anywhere in the EU, you might be protected under the EU’s rule EC261, even if you’re a US citizen. Under this rule, any flight that is cancelled outside of extraordinary circumstances is eligible for compensation. The only exception is if you’ve been notified by the airline at least 14 days in advance. And the airline has to be based in the EU for you to be eligible as well.
In case your flight was delayed and you happen to be eligible, flight cancellation compensation services like AirHelp might help you navigate the process. AirHelp can go through the normal claims process and work with the airline to get your deserved compensation. You can use these trained professionals to make the process low-stress on your part. Provide them with as many details as possible for the best chance of success.
Make Reasonable Demands
When you’re asking for compensation, always ensure that you’re asking for reasonable solutions. For example, a short flight delay doesn’t mean that you’re entitled to a voucher for another flight. However, significant problems should have larger compensation. Make sure that you’re also specific with what you expect for compensation. An airline is going to be able to respond to your request better if they know what you expect. They may also have a counter-offer so you may need to negotiate your request with the airline.
Keep Complaint Emails Short
Usually, you’ll often start your complaint process by writing an email to the airline making a complaint and asking for compensation. Although it can be easy to write a multi-page letter, you’re going to have a better experience if you keep the letter short.
Outline the facts of the situation quickly and unemotionally. Think about the letter as though it is a legal argument and not an emotional plea for assistance. You should be sure to include any relevant details such as the dates, flight numbers, and any other accurate information. Keep the email calm and professional and then end the complaint with what you believe is fair compensation for your troubles.
Consider Social Media Complaints
Although people who complain too often on social media will often be flagged as trouble passengers, you can use social media to your advantage in some situations. Airlines are more proactive to respond to complaints via social media such as Twitter than other methods. Having social pressure on their airline is a powerful tool.
If you’re active on social media, then you may want to consider this option. This should not be your first method of asking for compensation, but consider it when you’re not getting anywhere with your formal complaint. When using social media, make sure that you know who to tweet. If your message doesn’t reach the company, then you won’t get any response most likely. Airlines often respond within a number of hours to these types of complaints, so make sure that you keep track of your social media account.
Although flying can be a frustrating experience, you don’t have to settle for poor customer service. You can use these tips to get compensation from an airline when things go wrong. Make sure that you follow this advice to get the outcome that you deserve.
