Know Your Rights: How to Get Paid for Delayed Flights From Europe

Are you following lawyer Erika Kullberg on Instagram? Well, you should be because she is constantly providing hacks for knowing your rights while traveling.

Here's a recent example of claiming compensation for a delayed flight from the EU and the main information summarized below:

When Erika Kullberg’s flight was delayed, she knew her rights, unlike many travelers who might be told there’s nothing that can be done. Here’s how Erika turned a frustrating situation into a payout—and how you can, too.

EU Regulation 261

Imagine being told after a delay, “Sorry, it’s just a delay, there’s nothing we can do.” Most passengers would accept this and move on. But Erika, a knowledgeable lawyer, knew better.

She recalled EU Regulation 261, which protects passengers on flights departing from the European Union. According to this regulation, airlines are required to compensate passengers for delays of a certain length under specific circumstances:

When the airline representative asked about her flight details, Erika explained that her flight from Paris to the United States had been delayed for four hours due to a mechanical issue.

Does this apply to flights to the U.S.?

Initially, the airline tried to brush her off by claiming that EU Regulation 261 only applies to flights within the EU. However, Erika confidently corrected them: the regulation also applies to any flight departing from the EU, regardless of the destination.

Faced with this information, the airline had no choice but to compensate Erika with €600 (approx. $630)

The lesson here? Knowing your rights pays off—literally. Erika Kullberg’s expertise in consumer law empowered her to claim what she was owed, and it can do the same for other passengers who face similar situations.

FAQs, Fact Checks & More Tips

Does this only apply if I book directly with the airline?

No, but you may need to contact the airline directly to claim the refund, rather than the third party you booked the flight through.

How do I claim?

Go to the airline's website and claim the refund through them, citing EU Regulation 261.

What if my flight was delayed due to weather conditions?

Unfortunately, the regulation does not apply in this case. Only for instances of mechanical issues or faults with the airline, not those outside their control.

Does this rule also apply to flights within the U.S.?

EU Regulation 261 is specific for flights within the EU and departing from the EU. However, the U.S. has its own regulations, which were updated in 2024. You can find details on those here.

Does the rule apply to a flight from the United States to the EU?

Only if the airline is based in the EU. If not, then EU regulation does not apply, but you may be able to claim a similar refund using the U.S. regulations mentioned above.

My flight was a couple of years ago: can I still make a claim?

You can claim compensation up to 3 years after the incident.

Have you ever made a claim on a delayed flight or do you have any questions about EU Regulation 261? Let us know in the comments below.

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