Delayed and cancelled flights are the most common problems experienced by travelers. Luckily, the European Union has EU 261 regulation, which guarantees that you, as a passenger, are not left in a difficult situation and that your rights are protected. The European Union Regulation 261/2004 outlines the situations under which passengers are eligible for compensation and assistance during flight disruption.
In this article, you will find everything you need to know about EU 261 regulation and in which situations you are eligible for compensation.
Passenger Rights under EU 261/2004
Under EU Regulation 261, passengers arriving at Philadelphia International Airport from EU countries or departing from Philadelphia International Airport to anywhere on flights operated by airlines from the EU have specific 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: If an overnight stay is required, the airline is obligated to provide accommodation and transportation to and from the hotel.
- Ticket refund or alternative flight: Travelers can choose between 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.
Philadelphia International Airport Flight Delay Compensation
Flyers facing flight delays at Philadelphia International Airport might be entitled to compensation of up to 600 euros per person, especially if the delay lasts longer than three hours. The eligibility for compensation is decided 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 length 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 obligated to provide compensation for delays due to extraordinary circumstances beyond their control.
Philadelphia International Airport Flight Cancellation Compensation
In the event of a flight cancellation causing inconvenience at the Philadelphia International Airport, according to EU Regulation 261, travelers are eligible to get compensation of up to €600 if the airline informs them of the cancellation less than 14 days before departure.
Nevertheless, there are exceptions to this law. The airline may 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 |
Financial compensation could still be available even when you accept an alternative flight, provided your arrival at the final destination is significantly delayed. The compensation amount is determined by the flight distance and the length of the delay. You can refer to the table below to figure out the compensation amount you are entitled to:
| 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 cancellations due to extraordinary circumstances outside their control, such as extreme weather conditions or air traffic control strikes.
Which Philadelphia International Airport Flights are Covered by EU261?
Although Philadelphia International Airport isn’t within the EU, European Union Regulation 261/2004 could still cover some flights. Travelers arriving at Philadelphia International Airport from EU countries or departing from Philadelphia International Airport to anywhere on flights operated by EU-based airlines are covered by EU 261/2004.
Therefore, despite their geographic location beyond the EU, certain flights departing from Philadelphia International Airport may be subject to European laws if they are operated by airlines from the European Union.
| Itinerary | EU Airline | Non-EU Airline |
| Departures from Philadelphia International Airport to anywhere | Yes | No |
| Arrivals at Philadelphia International Airport from inside the EU | Yes | No |
| Arrivals at Philadelphia International Airport Airport from outside the EU | No | No |
How to Claim Compensation from Philadelphia International Airport
Flight disruptions are common due to factors such as adverse weather conditions, air traffic congestion, technical problems, or staffing issues. If you encounter a flight disruption at Philadelphia International Airport, you may be entitled to compensation under EU 261/2004.
To initiate a compensation claim, take the following 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 handle the rest. We know the EU laws well and will strive to secure your compensation. You are only charged if we win your case.