Flight delays and cancellations are the most common problems encountered by travelers. Fortunately, the European Union has EU Regulation 261/2004, which ensures that you, as a passenger, are not left in a difficult situation and that your rights are protected. The European Union Regulation 261/2004 defines the conditions when passengers are eligible for compensation and assistance in the event of flight disruption.
Here, you will discover everything you need to know about Regulation EU261 and under what circumstances you are entitled to compensation.
Passenger Rights under EU 261/2004
Under EU 261, passengers arriving at John F. Kennedy International Airport from EU countries or departing from John F. Kennedy International Airport to anywhere on flights operated by EU-based airlines have certain rights. These rights include:
- Food and drinks: Airlines must provide proper meals and refreshments during the waiting period.
- Access to means of communication: Passengers should be provided two free phone calls, emails, or faxes.
- Hotel accommodation if necessary: When an overnight stay is necessary, the airline is required to provide accommodation and transportation to and from the hotel.
- Ticket refund or alternative flight: Travelers may choose between a full refund of their ticket or rebooking on an alternative flight to their final destination.
- Compensation: Depending on the flight distance and length of delay, passengers could qualify for financial compensation ranging from €250 to €600.
John F. Kennedy International Airport Flight Delay Compensation
Flyers facing flight delays at John F. Kennedy International Airport could be eligible for compensation of up to 600 euros per person, especially if the delay lasts longer than three hours. The eligibility for compensation is determined by the reason for 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 flight delays caused by extraordinary circumstances outside their control.
John F. Kennedy International Airport Flight Cancellation Compensation
In the event of a flight cancellation causing inconvenience at the John F. Kennedy International Airport, according to EU 261/2004, passengers may receive compensation of up to €600 if the airline notifies them of the cancellation less than 14 days before departure.
Nevertheless, there are exceptions to this regulation. The airline could be exempt from compensating passengers if it provides an alternative flight that meets certain 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 |
Financial compensation might still be available even when you accept an alternative flight, provided your arrival at the final destination is significantly delayed. The compensation amount is based on the flight distance and the duration of the delay. You can refer to this table 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 usually don’t offer compensation for cancellations caused by extraordinary circumstances outside their control, such as severe weather or strikes by air traffic controllers.
Which John F. Kennedy International Airport Flights are Covered by EU261?
Although John F. Kennedy International Airport isn’t within the EU, EU Regulation 261/2004 could still cover some flights. Travelers arriving at John F. Kennedy International Airport from EU countries or departing from John F. Kennedy International Airport to anywhere on flights operated by EU-based airlines are covered by EU 261/2004.
Thus, despite their geographic location outside the EU, certain flights departing from John F. Kennedy International Airport may be subject to European laws if they are operated by European airlines.
| Itinerary | EU Airline | Non-EU Airline |
| Departures from John F. Kennedy International Airport to anywhere | Yes | No |
| Arrivals at John F. Kennedy International Airport from inside the EU | Yes | No |
| Arrivals at John F. Kennedy International Airport Airport from outside the EU | No | No |
How to Claim Compensation from John F. Kennedy International Airport
Flight disruptions often occur due to factors such as extreme weather conditions, air traffic congestion, technical problems, or staffing issues. If you encounter a flight disruption at John F. Kennedy International Airport, you could be eligible for compensation under European Union Regulation 261/2004.
To initiate a compensation claim, proceed with these steps:
- Fill in this form. You’ll need to provide details including 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 understand the EU laws thoroughly and will make every effort to secure your compensation. You only pay us if we win your case.