Flight delays can be incredibly frustrating for travelers. Whether it’s a short delay or a longer one, it can disrupt travel plans and cause inconvenience for passengers. In recent years, there has been an increased awareness about the rights of passengers when it comes to flight delays, and the regulations that govern compensation for such delays. In this article, we will discuss the rights of passengers when their TUI flight is delayed, the regulations surrounding flight compensation, and how passengers can go about getting the compensation they are entitled to.
When a TUI flight is delayed, passengers are entitled to certain rights and compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004. This regulation outlines the rights of passengers in the event of flight delays, cancellations, and denied boarding. The regulation applies to all flights departing from an EU airport, as well as flights arriving in the EU on an EU airline. This means that passengers flying with TUI from an EU airport, or on a TUI flight arriving in the EU on an EU airline, are covered by these regulations.
According to EU Regulation 261/2004, passengers on a TUI flight that is delayed by more than three hours are entitled to compensation. The amount of compensation is determined by the distance of the flight and the length of the delay. For flights of 1,500 kilometers or less, the compensation is €250 for delays of three hours or more. For flights between 1,500 and 3,500 kilometers, the compensation is €400 for delays of three hours or more. For flights over 3,500 kilometers, the compensation is €600 for delays of four hours or more.
In addition to compensation, passengers are also entitled to certain rights and amenities during a flight delay. These include the right to refreshments and meals, as well as the right to communication with family, friends, and work. If the delay is overnight, passengers are also entitled to hotel accommodation and transport to and from the hotel.
So, how can passengers go about getting the compensation they are entitled to? The first step is to contact the airline and make a claim for compensation. TUI has a process in place for handling such claims, and passengers can submit their claim directly through the TUI website or by contacting TUI customer service. It’s important for passengers to provide all relevant details, including their flight information, the reason for the delay, and any additional expenses they may have incurred as a result of the delay.
If the airline does not respond to the claim, or if the response is unsatisfactory, passengers can escalate their claim by contacting the National Enforcement Body (NEB) in the country where the flight was delayed. The NEB is responsible for enforcing EU Regulation 261/2004, and can assist passengers in resolving their compensation claims.
It’s also worth noting that there are certain circumstances in which an airline may not be obligated to pay compensation for a flight delay. These include extraordinary circumstances such as bad weather, air traffic control restrictions, or strikes that affect the operation of the flight. In such cases, the airline may still be required to provide certain rights and amenities to passengers, but may not be obligated to pay compensation.
In conclusion, passengers on a TUI flight that is delayed are entitled to compensation and certain rights and amenities under EU Regulation 261/2004. It’s important for passengers to be aware of their rights and to take action to claim the compensation they are entitled to. By following the appropriate steps and submitting a claim through the airline or the NEB, passengers can ensure that they receive the compensation and assistance they deserve in the event of a flight delay.