Flight Cancelled with Aeroitalia? Here’s What You Need to Know

Aeroitalia is a relatively new player in the aviation industry, but cancellations can still occur. Whether you were supposed to fly to Rome for a holiday or had an important business trip planned, a cancelled flight can ruin your schedule. The good news? You might be eligible for compensation under European Regulation EC261/2004. Let’s explore what your rights are and how you can turn an unfortunate situation into a financial win.

Understanding Aeroitalia Flight Cancellations

Aeroitalia operates flights mainly within Europe, connecting Italy to various destinations. Despite its efforts to maintain punctuality, flights sometimes get cancelled due to operational issues, technical problems, or staffing shortages. However, not all cancellations make you eligible for compensation.

If your flight was cancelled less than 14 days before departure, you could claim up to €600 per passenger, depending on the flight distance. But if the cancellation was due to extraordinary circumstances (such as extreme weather, security threats, or air traffic control strikes), compensation may not apply.

What Are Your Rights When Aeroitalia Cancels Your Flight?

Under EC261/2004, if your flight is cancelled, Aeroitalia must provide you with:

• A full refund or an alternative flight to your destination.

• Meals and refreshments if your new flight departs much later.

• Hotel accommodation if your alternative flight is scheduled for the next day.

• Transportation to and from the airport if necessary.

Compensation Breakdown

If the cancellation wasn’t due to extraordinary circumstances and you were informed less than 14 days before departure, here’s how much you can claim:

• €250 for flights up to 1,500 km (e.g., Rome to Paris).

• €400 for flights between 1,500 and 3,500 km (e.g., Milan to Cairo).

• €600 for flights over 3,500 km (e.g., Rome to New York).

Alternative Travel Options After a Cancellation

Being stranded at the airport is frustrating, but you don’t have to wait helplessly. Here’s what you can do:

1. Look for Alternative Flights

If Aeroitalia can’t offer a suitable rebooking, consider flights with other airlines. Carriers like ITA Airways and Ryanair often cover similar routes. If you were flying from Milan, you could check flights from both Linate (LIN) and Malpensa (MXP) airports.

2. Check Nearby Airports

If Aeroitalia cancels a flight from Rome Fiumicino, you might find alternatives from Rome Ciampino (CIA). Likewise, if your Milan flight is cancelled, you might find options from Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY).

3. Consider Rail Travel

Italy has an excellent train network. If your short-haul flight within Italy was cancelled, consider high-speed trains operated by Trenitalia or Italo. You might reach your destination faster than waiting for a new flight!

4. Know Your Accommodation Rights

If you need to stay overnight, Aeroitalia is required to cover your hotel costs. Make sure to confirm your accommodation with the airline before booking yourself.

How to Claim Compensation for a Cancelled Aeroitalia Flight

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Use the Trouble Flight Compensation Calculator to see if your cancelled flight qualifies for compensation. You’ll need your flight details, including:

• Flight number

• Original departure and arrival airports

• Date of travel

• How and when you were informed about the cancellation

Step 2: Submit Your Claim

If you’re eligible, Trouble Flight will handle your claim. We take care of negotiations with Aeroitalia and, if necessary, escalate the case to legal proceedings.

Step 3: Receive Your Compensation

If the claim is successful, you’ll receive compensation directly in your account. Trouble Flight operates on a no-win, no-fee basis, meaning you only pay a commission if we win your case.

How to Avoid Future Flight Cancellations

While you can’t control airline schedules, you can take steps to reduce the risk of cancellations affecting your travel plans:

• Book Early Morning Flights: Airlines tend to cancel evening flights more often than morning ones.

• Check Your Flight Status Before Heading to the Airport: Aeroitalia’s website and flight tracking apps can help you stay informed.

• Fly from Major Airports: Flights from hubs like Rome Fiumicino or Milan Malpensa are less likely to be cancelled compared to smaller airports.

• Choose Direct Flights When Possible: If you have a connecting flight, a cancellation on your first leg could disrupt your entire trip.

Final Thought

A cancelled Aeroitalia flight doesn’t have to mean losing time and money. If your flight was cancelled under the right conditions, you could be owed up to €600 in compensation. Check your eligibility today and claim what you’re entitled to!