Storms lead to delays and cancellations in air traffic
Extreme weather events such as heavy rain and flooding continue to increase due to climate change. Numerous flight connections are affected by such natural events. The apf provides information on the rights of travelers who are affected by delays and cancellations due to weather events.
Severe weather in air traffic
Storms are often difficult to predict in advance and can disrupt flight schedules considerably. Recently, for example, an Austrian Airlines plane on a flight from Palma to Vienna was severely damaged by a hailstorm over Styria.
There are currently an increasing number of weather-related flight delays and cancellations. The EU Passenger Rights Regulation generally provides for compensation payments in such cases, which can range between 250 and 600 euros depending on the flight distance. However, airlines are exempt from this obligation under certain "extraordinary circumstances". One example of this is "weather conditions that are incompatible with the operation of the flight". However, the airline concerned must take all reasonable measures to prevent delays or cancellations.
Proof of exceptional circumstances
In the arbitration procedure of the apf, the air carrier must prove in each individual case that an "extraordinary circumstance" exists. It is not sufficient to merely assert this circumstance. The air carrier must prove that the cancellation or long delay is due to an extraordinary circumstance and that all reasonable measures were taken to avoid the consequences.
What benefits are travelers entitled to?
Travelers are also entitled to certain benefits in the event of flight cancellations or delays due to extreme weather conditions. The right to assistance and care services (such as reimbursement of ticket costs, alternative transportation to the destination, meals, hotel accommodation and transfer to the hotel) remains unaffected.
The apf recommends that affected persons first contact the airline directly if no meals and/or accommodation are proactively offered. If accommodation and/or meals have to be organized and paid for yourself, all invoices and receipts should be kept and submitted to the airline for reimbursement as soon as possible.
The apf provides sample letters for such requests:
https://www.apf.gv.at/de/musterbriefe-entschaedigung-fluglinie.html