Flight delays and cancellations are the most frequent issues experienced by travelers. Fortunately, the European Union has EU Regulation 261, which guarantees that you, as a passenger, are not left in a difficult situation and that your rights are protected. The EU 261/2004 defines the conditions under which passengers are entitled to compensation and assistance in the event of flight disruption.
In this article, you will find everything you need to know about EU 261 regulation and under what circumstances you are eligible for compensation.
Passenger Rights under EU 261/2004
According to EU Regulation 261/2004, passengers departing from or arriving at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport on flights operated by EU-based airlines have specific rights in case of significant cancellations or delays. These rights include:
- Food and drinks: Airlines must provide proper refreshments and snacks during the waiting period.
- Access to means of communication: Passengers should be provided two free phone calls, emails, or faxes.
- Hotel accommodation if necessary: If an overnight stay is necessary, the airline is obligated to provide accommodation and transportation to and from the hotel.
- Ticket refund or alternative flight: Travelers have the option to select from a full refund of their ticket or rebooking on an alternative flight to their final destination.
- Compensation: According to the flight distance and length of delay, passengers might be entitled to financial compensation ranging from €250 to €600.
Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport Flight Delay Compensation
Flyers facing flight delays at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport might be eligible for compensation of up to 600 euros per person, especially if the delay lasts longer than three hours. The right to compensation is determined by the cause of the delay and whether it complies with UK and EU regulations. The amount of compensation is based on the time of arrival at the destination rather than departure time and is influenced by the distance of the flight and the duration of the delay.
| Less than 3 hours | Between 3-4 hours | Over 4 hours | Distance |
| €0 | €250 | €250 | All flights up to 1500 km |
| €0 | €400 | €400 | All flights between 1500 km and 3500 km |
| €0 | €400 | €400 | All intra-EU flights over 3500 km |
| €0 | €300 | €600 | All non-EU flights over 3500 km |
Keep in mind that airlines are not required to provide compensation for delays due to extraordinary circumstances beyond their control.
Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport Flight Cancellation Compensation
In case of a flight cancellation causing inconvenience at the Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, under EU 261/2004, passengers can get compensation of up to €600 if the airline informs them of the cancellation less than 14 days before departure.
Nonetheless, there are exceptions to this regulation. The airline might be exempt from compensating passengers if it provides an alternative flight that meets specific criteria, letting you arrive at your destination with the minimal delay possible:
| Advance Notice | Re-routing Requirements |
| 14 Days | None |
| 7 – 13 Days | Alternative flight departing no more than 2 hours before and arriving less than 4 hours after the original flight |
| Less than 7 Days | Alternative flight departing no more than 1 hour before and arriving less than 2 hours after the original flight |
Compensation may still be available even though you agree to an alternative flight, provided your arrival at the final destination is significantly delayed. The compensation amount is based on the distance of the flight and the duration of the delay. You can refer to the table below to figure out the compensation amount you are eligible for:
| Under 2 hours | 2-3 hours | 3-4 hours | Over 4 hours | Never arrived | Distance |
| €125 | €250 | €250 | €250 | €250 | All flights 1,500 km or less |
| €200 | €200 | €400 | €400 | €400 | Internal EU flights over 1,500 km |
| €200 | €200 | €400 | €400 | €400 | Non-internal EU flights 1,500 km- 3,500 km |
| €300 | €300 | €300 | €600 | €600 | Non-internal EU flights over 3,500 km |
Keep in mind that airlines typically don’t provide compensation for flight cancellations due to extraordinary circumstances outside their control, such as severe weather or air traffic control strikes.
Which Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport Flights are Covered by EU261?
If you are departing from an airport in the European Union and flying with an airline flight from the EU, you are protected under EU Regulation 261/2004. This law guarantees that you have certain rights in the event of a delay, flight cancellation, denied boarding, and related issues. Here’s a more detailed table of which cases are protected by EU Regulation 261 and which are not:
| Itinerary | EU Airline | Non-EU Airline |
| Departures from Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport to anywhere | Yes | Yes |
| Arrivals at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport from inside the EU | Yes | No |
| Arrivals at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport Airport from outside the EU | Yes | No |
How to Claim Compensation from Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport
Flight cancellations and delays are common due to factors such as extreme weather conditions, air traffic congestion, technical problems, or crew shortages. If you experience a flight disruption at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, you may be entitled to compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004.
To initiate your compensation claim, follow these steps:
- Complete this form. You’ll need to provide details like your flight number, date, and the problem you faced.
- Let our experts help you. Once you submit the form, our team will manage the process. We know the EU laws comprehensively and will make every effort to secure your compensation. You are only charged if we win your case.