Drones and cyberattacks at Europe's airports: what rights do air travelers have in Austria?

European airports are currently experiencing an increase in cyber attacks and drone sightings. These incidents have had a significant impact on air traffic on our continent in recent weeks. Copenhagen and Oslo airports, for example, had to close completely at times after drones were spotted. Hundreds of flights were subsequently canceled or rerouted. At Berlin-Brandenburg Airport, a cyber attack on an IT service provider led to massive check-in problems with flight delays and baggage problems.

Even if the airlines themselves are not responsible for these disruptions, they have a clear responsibility towards their passengers.

What rights do affected travelers have?

The EU Passenger Rights Regulation stipulates that passengers have certain rights in the event of delays or flight cancellations - regardless of whether the cause lies with the airline or not.

Obligation to provide care: Passengers with a waiting time of two hours or more on short-haul flights are entitled to free drinks and food.

Hotel accommodation: If it is no longer possible to continue your journey and an onward flight is only possible the next day, the airline must provide accommodation and transfers.

Alternative transportation or refund: In the event of a flight cancellation, passengers can either reclaim the ticket price or request alternative transportation (e.g. rebooking to another flight or train) to and from the original departure or arrival point. This also applies if the flight was diverted to another airport.

Self-organization: If no alternative transport is offered, travellers can also book an alternative themselves. It is important to keep all original invoices and receipts in order to claim them from the airline.

Compensation payments

In addition to the obligation to provide care, the EU regulation also provides for lump-sum compensation payments of up to 600 euros if flights are canceled at short notice or if the destination is reached with a delay of at least three hours. This amount depends on the flight distance.

However, this compensation is only available if the cause of the delay or flight cancellation is within the airline's sphere of influence. Events such as an airport closure due to drone sightings or a cyberattack on external IT systems are generally considered extraordinary circumstances - in this case, there is no entitlement to compensation payments.

Nevertheless, airlines must do everything reasonable to minimize the impact on passengers. Claims may therefore still be made if an airline does not take sufficient measures.

Free help and mediation by the apf in Austria

The apf is the state-established arbitration board that acts free of charge for passengers if no agreement can be reached with the airline. It provides support in enforcing claims - whether in the event of delayed or canceled flights, problems with baggage or refusal of reimbursement.

Even if drone sightings or cyber attacks can be exceptional circumstances, airlines are obliged to provide care, rebooking and, if necessary, a refund of the ticket price. In Austria, passengers have a strong institution at their side in the form of apf, which supports them free of charge in asserting their rights.