Does travel insurance cover a delayed flight?

You arrive at the airport an hour before departure because you don't want to miss your flight. You sit and wait for the scheduled flight, but suddenly the situation is delayed. Downer, right? Instead of being excited about the entire ride, it gets frustrating and the real fun doesn't even begin.

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Aig travel insurance

Like it or not, delayed flights do happen from time to time, which is out of your reach. Even seasoned travelers will say the same. Despite traveling many times, delayed flights are annoying and can affect a person's patience and mood. So what is your best shield against delayed flights? Book small travel insurance for a late flight in case you need to reschedule or book a different flight.

The basic rights of passengers due to flight delays

Suppose you are waiting for your flight at an airport in the European Union. You are also traveling with an EU registered airline that arrives at an EU airport.

If the flight is delayed for two hours, the airline will be responsible for you until you arrive for your flight. They are required to give you access to calls or emails, a snack or meal with a drink, or stay overnight when needed. You also have the right to request any form of assistance when you need it. If you have out-of-pocket expenses, travel insurance coverage can reimburse you once you file a claim.

When to file an insurance claim

In addition to access to communication and more refreshments, travelers are entitled to financial compensation if flights are delayed for at least three hours. This is in accordance with the laws of the European Union. The compensation depends on the distance of your flight and the length of the delay until your arrival.

Each passenger receives 250 euros for a flight of 1,500 kilometers or less. If the flight distance is between 1,500 km and 3,500 km, passengers are entitled to compensation of € 400 per person. If the delay is four hours or more and the flight distance of at least 3,500 kilometers, you can claim 600 euros.

While there seems to be a rainbow after the rain, don't get your hopes up just yet. To file a successful claim, the delay must be the fault of the airline. If the delay is caused by natural events or unforeseen circumstances such as protests and strikes, the chances of obtaining compensation are low or nil.

Abandon the flight delay

If the delay is more than five hours, you can choose not to board the flight, regardless of the reason for the delay and the distance of the flight. You can get a full refund for this reservation, including the return ticket if it is booked with the same airline. However, if you take the flight, you can claim compensation of up to 600 euros, since the reason for the delay was the fault of the airline.

Another lifeline is your travel insurance for flight delays. It may also provide you with some coverage if you decide not to continue your journey due to a serious flight delay. Read the policy and find out its limits and the scope of coverage it provides when flights are delayed. 

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