When is a missed connection eligible for compensation?
A missed connection is often eligible when: (1) your journey is under one booking (single ticket / single itinerary), (2) EC 261/2004 applies (EU departure, or EU arrival with an EU carrier), and (3) your arrival at the final destination is delayed by at least 3 hours, unless the disruption was caused by an extraordinary circumstance.
How is the delay calculated with a connection?
The key metric is the delay at your final destination (the last arrival), not only the delay on the first leg. Even if the first flight was “only” 1 hour late, you may still be eligible if missing the connection causes you to arrive 3 hours or more late at your final destination.
✅ Same booking / same itinerary
The delay is measured at the final destination. The whole trip is treated as one journey.
⚠️ Separate tickets
Each flight is treated separately. Missed connections are generally not covered as one itinerary.
Rerouting and care: what the airline must provide
When you miss a connection on a single itinerary, the airline should generally offer rerouting to your final destination. Depending on waiting time, you may also be entitled to care (meals, communications) and sometimes hotel accommodation.
✈️ Rerouting
Alternative transport to your final destination under comparable conditions, as soon as possible.
🍽️ Care & assistance
Meals/refreshments, communications (emails/calls), and hotel + transport if an overnight stay is necessary.
Compensation amounts
Amounts are set by EC 261/2004 and depend mainly on the journey distance. With connections, distance is typically considered from your initial departure point to the final destination.
Extraordinary circumstances
Airlines may refuse compensation if the disruption was caused by an extraordinary circumstance. Some causes are clear, others depend on context and evidence.
Often considered extraordinary
- Severe weather / dangerous conditions
- Air traffic control restrictions (ATC)
- Security risks, emergencies
Often NOT extraordinary
- Routine technical issues
- Internal operations (rotation, scheduling)
- Staffing issues (case dependent)
Documents to prepare
To speed things up, prepare:
How to claim easily
The goal is to show (1) your flights are on one booking and (2) the delay at your final destination. A clear file improves your chances significantly.
- Enter your full itinerary and explain the missed connection.
- Eligibility check and case preparation.
- Contact and negotiation with the airline.
- Payment if accepted (or escalation if needed depending on the case).
FAQ
Is a missed connection always compensated?
No. Typically, the journey must be on one booking and your final arrival delay is usually 3 hours or more (unless extraordinary circumstances apply).
What if my flights are on separate tickets?
It’s more difficult because airlines often treat each flight independently. Still, it can be worth checking depending on context and evidence.
Does the delay on the first flight alone matter?
The key metric is the delay at the final destination, especially on connecting itineraries.