How to Maximize Your Flight Compensation Claims in 2024

Getting the maximum compensation for flight disruptions requires more than just knowing your rights. Here are proven strategies to maximize your claim value and success rate.

Understand the Compensation Tiers

EU261 compensation is tiered based on flight distance:

• Up to 1500km: €250 per passenger
• 1500km - 3500km: €400 per passenger
• Over 3500km: €600 per passenger

Timing is Everything

The sooner you file your claim, the better your chances:

1. File within 30 days of your disrupted flight
2. Collect evidence immediately after the disruption
3. Follow up regularly but not excessively

Documentation Tips

Strong documentation increases your compensation:

• Boarding passes and e-tickets
• Airline communication (emails, texts)
• Receipts for additional expenses
• Photos of departure boards and airport conditions

When to Seek Professional Help

Consider professional assistance when:

1. The airline disputes the claim
2. Extraordinary circumstances are cited
3. You have multiple passengers on one booking
4. The claim value exceeds €500 per passenger

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Don't make these common mistakes:

• Accepting the first offer without review
• Missing documentation deadlines
• Not understanding extraordinary circumstances
• Filing claims too late