Business traveller flight compensation - do you know your rights?

Flying became more than a frequent way to travel. It's like taking a bus, or taking your car. Of course, we all hope every travel will be just the most positive possible one. BUT... Do you know your rights as passenger? Did you check them when buying your ticket? Are there points you are still missing?

Business passengers make up a large section of total air passengers, and they are no strangers to the problems associated with frequent flying. They may consider cancellations and delays as just part of the job, but what about the issue of business traveller flight compensation?

The aviation industry was perfectly placed to deal with globalisation, and the associated upsurge of new connections, but this huge increase in flights, also came with an increase in delayed, and cancelled flights. Despite this, increased compensation awareness among commercial and business flyers is scant. Hectic lifestyles, and lack of information prevents them from claiming their legally entitled flight compensation. Passengers remain unaware that companies like GIVT exist to act for them.

Am I entitled to compensation for a delayed business flight?

In the case of delayed or cancelled flights, the cost of the ticket, and loss potential business is borne directly by companies. However, the headache and inconvenience of delayed and cancelled flights is suffered by the passengers, and it is they who are personally entitled to compensation, even if their employers booked their tickets.

“due to various regulations, for example regarding airport security, air travel is often linked to stress and inconvenience. Although some of these laws may be a headache, others protect us, and give us rights. EU regulations provide clear rules regarding flight compensation for delayed, or cancelled flights. Any such compensation is due to the person whose name is on the ticket,  even if the ticket was purchased by an employer, or other 3rd party” - says Piotr Rybicki, Manager for GIVT Business Development. 

How much flight compensation are business passengers entitled to?

Compensation is due to each and every passenger, irrespective of destination and purpose. Individual compensation is calculated based on flight distance for flights delayed by 3 or more hours at destination:

• flights up to 1,500km: €250
• flights up to 3,500km: €400
• flights over 3,500km: €600

In the event of a cancelled flight, business customers are also protected. The amount of compensation, however, may lower to 50% if the carrier meets certain conditions, for example: gives appropriate early cancelled flight notification, or alternative flight options that reach the destination within delay limits.

Circumstances also exist whereby an airline may be exempt from flight compensation liability. These extraordinary circumstances may include bad weather conditions, airport ground staff, or flight traffic controller strikes, but may also include technical reasons.