Getting stuck at an airport because of a Flight Delay is frustrating. You wait. You miss connections. Plans fall apart. But did you know that when this happens due to a technical defect, you may be entitled to compensation?
Let’s walk through what counts as a technical defect, what your rights are, and how to claim compensation. This guide is for you—the traveler who wants clear answers and practical help.
What Counts as a Technical Defect?
A technical defect is any fault in the aircraft that prevents safe travel. These can happen before or during the flight. They include system errors, part malfunctions, or structural problems.
Common examples include:
- Faulty engines
- Problems with the fuel system
- Electrical or computer failure
- Defective landing gear
- Faulty brakes or tires
- Leaking hydraulic systems
- Issues with radar or communication equipment
- Broken lighting systems
- Malfunctioning toilets or air conditioning
Even though some of these issues may sound small, if they affect flight safety, the airline cannot take off until repairs are complete.
Tip: If your flight is grounded due to a technical issue, take note of what airline staff are saying. Get a written explanation if possible.
How Do Technical Defects Cause Flight Delays?
Airlines have strict safety rules. If the plane doesn’t meet all the requirements, it can’t fly. A minor problem might delay your departure for a short time. A serious issue could mean hours of waiting, or even cancellation.
Sometimes, the airline has to bring in a new part or another aircraft. Crew schedules may be affected too. All this can snowball into long delays.
This is where Flight Delay laws come into play.
Your Right to Compensation
Under EU Regulation EC 261/2004, if your flight is delayed more than three hours or canceled because of a technical defect, you could be entitled to up to €600.
This applies to:
- Flights departing from any EU airport
- Flights arriving in the EU on an EU airline
- Flights canceled or delayed by more than 3 hours due to technical issues
Tip: Keep your boarding pass, flight confirmation, and any communication from the airline.
✈️ Flight delays due to technical defects are not considered “extraordinary” by most courts. This means the airline is usually responsible and must pay compensation.
What Does “Extraordinary Circumstance” Mean?
Airlines do not owe compensation if the delay was caused by something out of their control. These are rare and include:
- Natural disasters
- Acts of terrorism
- Bird strikes
- Political instability
- Airport strikes (outside airline control)
But technical issues? Not extraordinary. Courts have ruled that poor maintenance, wear and tear, or mechanical failure are within the airline’s control.
Airlines often argue that a defect was unforeseen, but unless they prove it, Flight cancellation compensation still applies.
When Can You Claim?
You can claim if:
- Your flight was delayed over 3 hours
- The delay was caused by a technical defect
- The flight was canceled with short notice
- You didn’t receive proper care (meals, hotel if needed)
- The airline was responsible for the issue
If your flight qualifies, don’t let it slide.
Need help? Airline Help is here for you! Call 800-594(4991) (OTA) and let our team guide you through your options.
What Can You Get?
Depending on the distance of your flight and the length of the delay, you could be entitled to:
- €250 for flights under 1,500 km
- €400 for flights between 1,500 and 3,500 km
- €600 for longer flights or intercontinental journeys
This is per passenger, regardless of your ticket price.
In addition, you may receive:
- Meals and refreshments during the delay
- Hotel accommodation (if the delay is overnight)
- Transport between airport and hotel
- Two phone calls or emails
✅ These are your rights, not gifts from the airline.
Flight Outside the EU? You May Still Qualify
If you’re flying with an EU airline, the rules apply even outside the EU.
For example:
- Flying from New York to Paris on Air France = covered
- Flying from Dubai to Frankfurt on Lufthansa = covered
- Flying from Dubai to Frankfurt on Emirates = not covered
Flight Delay rules depend on both the airline and where your flight starts or ends.
What To Do When Delayed Due to Technical Defects
Here’s what you should do the moment you hear about a delay:
- Ask airline staff for a written reason for the delay
- Save all travel documents (boarding pass, email confirmation, expense receipts)
- Document everything — note when the delay starts and ends
- Talk to other passengers — their info can support your claim
- Avoid accepting travel vouchers if you want to claim full compensation
Why Airlines Refuse Compensation
Many airlines reject claims hoping you’ll give up. They might say:
- “It was an extraordinary event.”
- “The delay was only 2 hours.”
- “It was the manufacturer’s fault.”
But remember, courts expect airlines to prove this. You have the right to challenge it.
Tip: If you’re unsure what to say, write down everything that happened and call Airline Help. We’ll help you shape your case.
Time Limits to Claim
Time limits vary by country. You have:
- 3 years in Germany
- 5 years in France
- 6 years in the UK
- Up to 2 years in the U.S. (non-EU flights)
✍️ Tip: Don’t wait. The sooner you act, the easier it is to prove your case.
Let Airline Help Make It Easier
Dealing with airlines takes time. Forms, follow-ups, and long waits. That’s where we step in.
At Airline Help, we:
- Review your case
- Handle all communication
- Push for fast, fair payment
- Work on your behalf
Flight Cancellation Compensation? Call 800-594(4991) (OTA). Let us do the heavy lifting for you.
Conclusion
If a Flight Delay turned your plans upside down, you don’t have to accept it. Flight delays due to technical defects are often covered by compensation laws. You have rights. You deserve answers. You might even get money back.
Key Takeaways:
- You may get up to €600 for delays or cancellations
- Most technical defects are not extraordinary
- You must act quickly and keep documents
- Help is available—don’t face it alone
Stuck due to a delay? Airline Help is ready to support you. Call 800-594(4991) (OTA) now.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does a flight have to be delayed to get compensation?
If your flight is delayed by more than 3 hours and the cause is not an extraordinary event, you may be eligible for compensation under EU law.
2. What documents do I need to file a compensation claim?
You’ll need your boarding pass, booking confirmation, and proof of the delay (like a delay notice or email from the airline). Keep receipts for any extra costs, like meals or hotel stays.
3. Can I get compensation if the flight was outside of Europe?
Yes, if you flew with an EU-based airline or your flight departed from an EU airport, you’re covered—even if your destination was outside the EU.
4. What if the airline says the defect was unavoidable?
Airlines often say this to avoid payment, but most technical problems are within their control. If you’re unsure, contact Airline Help—we’ll check it for you.