A flight cancellation can ruin your travel plans. EU261 regulation protects air passenger rights. You might need to write a compensation claim letter. This applies if your flight was canceled or significantly delayed.
Writing a compensation letter can be daunting. We’ve got you covered. This article provides letter templates and examples.
Use our samples to craft your perfect letter. Get the compensation you deserve. Let’s make the process easier.
Letter To Airline For Cancelled Flight Compensation Eu261
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Airline Name]
[Airline Address]
Subject: Compensation Claim for Cancelled Flight – EU261 Regulation – Flight [Flight Number]
Dear [Airline Name] Customer Service,
I am writing to request compensation for a cancelled flight, [Flight Number], from [Departure City] to [Arrival City] on [Date of Flight].
I was informed of the cancellation on [Date of Notification] which was [Number] days/hours before the scheduled departure.
Under EU Regulation 261/2004, I am entitled to compensation because the cancellation was within 14 days of the planned departure and was due to [Reason for Cancellation – if known. If unknown, state: “circumstances that do not qualify as extraordinary circumstances”].
My booking reference is [Your Booking Reference].
According to EU261, I am entitled to €[Amount] in compensation.
I look forward to receiving confirmation of my claim and details of how the compensation will be paid.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
How to Write Letter To Airline For Cancelled Flight Compensation Eu261
Subject Line: The Harbinger of Your Claim
- Be precise: “EU261 Compensation Claim – Flight [Flight Number] – [Date of Flight]”
- Mentioning EU261 immediately flags its importance.
- A clear subject line expedites processing and prevents misfiling.
Salutation: A Formal Overture
- Address the airline formally: “Dear [Airline Name] Customer Relations Department,”
- Avoid casual greetings; this is a formal request.
- If you know a specific contact, use their name for a personalized touch.
Introduction: Setting the Stage
- State your purpose unequivocally: “I am writing to claim compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004 for the cancellation of flight [Flight Number] from [Departure Airport] to [Arrival Airport] on [Date of Flight].”
- Include your booking reference or ticket number for easy retrieval of your flight details.
- Be concise; airlines process numerous claims daily.
Body Paragraph 1: Detailing the Disruption
- Outline the specifics of the cancellation: “My flight was cancelled on [Date of Cancellation] with [Number] hours’ notice.”
- Explain the impact of the cancellation on your travel plans.
- If applicable, mention any consequential losses incurred due to the cancellation (e.g., missed connecting flights, prepaid accommodations).
Body Paragraph 2: Asserting Your Entitlement
- Refer explicitly to EU261: “Under EU Regulation 261/2004, I am entitled to compensation because the cancellation was not due to extraordinary circumstances.”
- Cite the specific article if possible (Article 5 outlines cancellation compensation).
- Emphasize that you understand your rights and are prepared to pursue them.
Compensation Request: Quantifying Your Due
- State the amount of compensation you are claiming: “Based on the flight distance, I am claiming €[Amount] in compensation.”
- The amount depends on the flight distance: €250 (up to 1500km), €400 (1500-3500km), or €600 (over 3500km).
- Include your bank details (account name, account number, SWIFT/BIC code, IBAN) for payment.
Closing: A Cordial Demand
- Reiterate your expectation: “I look forward to receiving confirmation of my claim’s approval and payment within [Reasonable Timeframe, e.g., 14 days].”
- Express willingness to provide further information if needed.
- End with a formal closing: “Yours sincerely,” followed by your full name and contact details (phone number and email address).
Frequently Asked Questions: EU261 Compensation for Cancelled Flights
This section provides answers to common queries regarding compensation for flight cancellations under EU Regulation 261/2004 (EU261). Understanding your rights can help you navigate the claims process effectively.
What is EU261 and how does it protect passengers?
EU261 is a European Union regulation that establishes common rules on compensation and assistance to passengers in the event of denied boarding, flight cancellations, or long delays. It ensures that passengers are entitled to financial compensation, rerouting, or a refund under certain circumstances.
When am I entitled to compensation for a cancelled flight under EU261?
You are entitled to compensation if your flight is cancelled less than 14 days before the scheduled departure date and the cancellation was not due to extraordinary circumstances (e.g., severe weather, political instability, security risks).
How much compensation can I claim for a cancelled flight?
The amount of compensation depends on the distance of your flight: €250 for flights up to 1,500km, €400 for flights between 1,500km and 3,500km, and €600 for flights over 3,500km.
What are “extraordinary circumstances” that exempt airlines from paying compensation?
Extraordinary circumstances are events that are unavoidable and beyond the airline’s control, such as severe weather conditions, political instability, security risks, or air traffic control restrictions. The airline must prove that the cancellation was caused by such circumstances.
How do I submit a claim to the airline for compensation?
You should submit a written claim to the airline, including your flight details, booking reference, and a clear statement requesting compensation under EU261. Keep copies of all correspondence and any supporting documents.
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