The Rise of Low-Cost Carriers and Passenger Rights

Low-cost carriers have revolutionized air travel, making flying more accessible to millions. However, their business model has also created new challenges for passenger rights and compensation claims.

The Low-Cost Revolution

Low-cost carriers have transformed the aviation industry by:

• Offering significantly lower base fares
• Operating with higher frequency and tighter schedules
• Minimizing operational costs through various strategies
• Expanding route networks to secondary airports

Impact on Flight Disruptions

The low-cost model affects disruption rates in several ways:

1. Higher frequency = more opportunities for delays - More flights mean more chances for disruptions
2. Tighter turnaround times - Reduced time between flights increases cancellation risks
3. Cost-cutting measures - May affect operational reliability

Passenger Rights in the Low-Cost Era

Your rights remain the same regardless of the airline's pricing model:

• EU261 protection applies equally to all EU airlines
• Compensation amounts are identical for similar flights
• Airlines cannot contract out of their legal obligations

How to Protect Yourself When Flying Budget

Tips for flying with low-cost carriers:

1. Book refundable fares when possible - Even slightly more expensive options offer better protection
2. Allow generous connection times - Build extra buffer time between flights
3. Purchase travel insurance - Covers expenses not covered by EU261
4. Understand baggage policies - Avoid additional fees that can exceed savings

The Role of Claims Services

Professional claims services are particularly valuable for low-cost carrier flights because:

• They understand the specific tactics used by budget airlines
• They have experience with high-volume carriers
• They can handle the volume of claims efficiently
• They negotiate with airlines familiar with their processes