Spending your holidays in Greece is a marvellous journey. Sun, sand and sea await you for an unforgettable time and our travel agency helps you discover more in Crete. However, for a small fraction of people, air travel which is the way most of the tourists come to Crete is not a happy start to their holidays. In this blog, we inform you about your passenger rights on airlines and EU laws on compensation.

Airline rights

When you buy an airline ticket in Europe, you are automatically protected against discrimination whether this may be for your race or disability. This means that you have the right to get help free of charge and the airlines will comply with this religiously. It is recommended to inform the airport authorities of the need for help at least two days before.

Information is paramount

When purchasing a ticket, the airline is obliged to inform you about your fare and the applicable taxes. Any additional charges (i.e. passenger seat location) must be referred to as an opt- in basis.

Delayed or Losing a flight

If you experience a delay, or cancellation or are denied boarding to an aircraft you are eligible for assistance such as meals, refreshments, transportation and if necessary – accommodation.

If your flight is delayed or you are denied boarding at short notice, assistance is being offered after:

  • 2 hours or more for flights of 1500km or less
  • 3 hours or more for longer flights within the EU and for flights of 1500km to 3500km
  • 4 hours for flights of more than 3500km and outside the EU

Furthermore, if you are denied boarding, a money-back option is offered or rerouting to your final destination at no extra cost. If you decide to take your money back, a return to your journey starting point is eligible at the earliest opportunity.

 

Greece air traffic rights

Compensation

 Compensation in Euros starts from 125 Euro up to 600 Euro depending on the flight distance and the delay. Be careful as this applies only to non-informed delays, as the airline will not compensate you if you are informed about the flight delay at least 14 days prior to departure.

Compensation for lost luggage or damaged luggage or even delayed luggage is also possible, and in case of damaged luggage, you have to inform your airline within 7 days or in case of delayed luggage within 21 days. 

Air passenger rights: Bear in mind

You have to always keep a copy of your documents and allow time for investigation and also be very specific on your claims (date, time, the staff you spoke to, extra booking references, relevant documentation etc). You have to always remember that you address the problem regarding your passenger rights first with the Airline and in case of mobility issues, the airport authorities.

Discover Crete stress-free with our travel agency

By having this knowledge at hand, you now rest assured that you know your rights and can demand compensation if you are applicable. Arriving in Crete and exploring our private tours, our excursions and car rentals and our preferred hotels should now be a breeze! Safe travels!