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Delayed, cancelled or overbooked flights

Millions of passengers travel through Northern Ireland’s airports every year. While most journeys are problem free, it’s important to know your rights if your flight is delayed, cancelled or overbooked. You may be entitled to compensation.

What the law says

The airline must look after you if your flight is delayed, cancelled or if you are denied boarding on an overbooked flight.

If your journey is disrupted you may also be entitled to compensation.

These rules apply when you travel on charter and scheduled flights within European Union countries, Switzerland, Norway and Iceland.

When you check-in at the airline desk, look for information about the airline's help policy for passengers on a delayed flight. If the information is not on display, ask the airline check-in clerk.

Passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility are legally entitled to help from the airport and airline.

Delayed or cancelled flight

If your flight is delayed, cancelled or you are denied boarding you are entitled to help. This usually means food, drink, access to communication and overnight accommodation if needed. You may also be entitled to compensation. Find out more at the following link:

  • Air Passenger Rights

Claiming compensation

Whether your flight has been delayed, cancelled or overbooked the airline should give you written information about the rules for compensation and help.

If you think that you are entitled to compensation you should contact your airline directly by letter or in an email telling them what went wrong and the amount of compensation you expect to receive.  

If you are not satisfied with the outcome of the complaint you can contact the Consumer Council.

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Holidays and travel

  • Booking a holiday
  • Damaged or lost luggage
  • Delayed, cancelled or overbooked flights
  • Making a complaint about air services
  • Your rights if an airline or travel company goes bust

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