Flight Delayed in Rome? Know Your Rights & Claim Compensation

Rome: A Dream Destination, but Flight Delays Happen

Rome, the Eternal City, is a place of history, art, and culture. From the Colosseum to the Vatican, millions visit every year. However, travel plans don’t always go smoothly—flight delays in Rome are more common than you might think. Whether you're departing from Fiumicino (FCO) or Ciampino (CIA), a delayed flight can throw off your schedule, cause missed connections, and disrupt your plans.

If you’ve found yourself stuck at Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport for hours, wondering "What now?", the good news is that EU regulations protect your rights. Under EU261/2004, you could be entitled to up to €600 in compensation for flight delays over three hours. Let’s break it down so you can get your money back for the inconvenience.

When Can You Claim Compensation for a Flight Delay in Rome?

If your flight was delayed by three hours or more, and the delay wasn’t due to extraordinary circumstances (like extreme weather or air traffic control strikes), you can file a claim. Here’s what matters:

1. How Long Was the Delay?

• Less than 3 hours → No compensation under EU law.

• 3+ hours but still departed → You may be eligible for compensation.

• Over 5 hours delay → You can choose to not fly and get a full ticket refund plus compensation.

2. What Was the Reason for the Delay?

• Airline’s fault (technical issue, crew problems, operational mistakes) → You can claim.

• Extraordinary circumstances (severe weather, airport strikes, security risks) → No claim possible.

3. Was Your Flight to/from an EU Country?

• Departing from Rome (FCO or CIA) to any destination worldwide? ✅ Covered by EU law.

• Flying to Rome from a non-EU country on an EU airline? ✅ Also covered.

• Flying to Rome from a non-EU country on a non-EU airline? ❌ Not covered.

If your situation qualifies, you can claim up to €600 per passenger.

How Much Compensation Can You Get for a Delayed Flight in Rome?

Your compensation depends on the distance of your flight:

For example:

• If your flight from Rome to London (around 1,500 km) was delayed over 3 hours, you could claim €250.

• If your flight from Rome to New York (over 3,500 km) was delayed 4+ hours, you’re eligible for €600.

Which Rome Airports Have the Most Delays?

Rome has two main airports, and both experience delays, but some flights are more affected than others.

Fiumicino Airport (FCO) – The Main International Hub

Fiumicino is Italy’s busiest airport, handling long-haul and European flights. Delays here often happen due to:

• Overloaded air traffic

• Strikes by airport staff or airlines

• Bad weather affecting arrivals and departures

If your flight from Fiumicino is delayed, check if Ciampino Airport (CIA) has alternative flights.

Ciampino Airport (CIA) – Budget Airlines & Regional Flights

Mainly serving Ryanair and Wizz Air, Ciampino has fewer delays, but when they happen, they can be worse due to:

• Limited runways causing congestion

• Aircraft rotations (budget airlines rely on fast turnarounds)

• Weather conditions affecting takeoff

If your low-cost flight is delayed, you might find an alternative from Fiumicino, which has more international carriers.

What to Do If Your Flight Is Delayed in Rome?

If you’re stuck in the airport with a long delay, here’s what you should do to ensure you can claim compensation later:

1. Ask for the reason for the delay – Get it in writing from the airline.

2. Keep all your travel documents – Boarding passes, ticket confirmations, receipts for extra expenses.

3. Ask for food and hotel vouchers – If your delay is over 2 hours, airlines must provide refreshments. If it's overnight, they must cover accommodation.

4. Do not accept travel vouchers – Airlines may offer flight vouchers instead of compensation. You are entitled to cash under EU law.

5. File a claim – You can do this yourself or use a legal service specializing in flight compensation.

Alternative Travel Options If Your Flight Is Delayed Too Long

Rome is well-connected, so if your flight delay is extreme, consider:

• Taking a train: High-speed Frecciarossa trains can get you to Milan, Florence, or Naples in just a few hours.

• Checking alternative airports: If Fiumicino is experiencing disruptions, see if Ciampino (CIA) has an earlier flight.

• Exploring Rome: If your delay is long but under 24 hours, drop your bags at the airport and visit the Colosseum, Pantheon, or enjoy an espresso at Piazza Navona.

Flight Delayed in Rome? Claim Your Compensation Today!

A flight delay can ruin your travel plans, but you don’t have to lose money. If your flight was delayed over three hours, you could get up to €600 in compensation.

🔹 Check your flight now—it takes just minutes.
🔹 No risk—you pay nothing unless you win.
🔹 Thousands of passengers claim compensation every day.

Don’t let a delayed flight ruin your trip—claim what’s yours today!