Flight Cancelled at Corvo Airport? Here’s What to Do Next

Flying from Corvo Airport and Your Flight Got Cancelled? Here's How to Handle It

Nestled in the Azores archipelago, Corvo Airport (CVU) is one of the most remote airports in Europe. Serving the small island of Corvo, this airport mainly operates domestic flights to other Azorean islands, particularly to Flores. Due to its isolated location, flight disruptions, including cancellations, are more frequent here than in larger airports.

If your flight from Corvo Airport was cancelled, don’t worry—you have options! Whether you’re stranded on the island or trying to reach your next destination, there are important steps you should take to minimize the inconvenience and potentially receive financial compensation.

Why Are Flights Often Cancelled at Corvo Airport?

Corvo’s airport is particularly vulnerable to weather-related cancellations, as strong Atlantic winds, fog, and storms frequently disrupt flight schedules. Due to the airport’s short runway and limited infrastructure, even minor weather disturbances can prevent aircraft from landing or taking off safely.

Other common reasons for flight cancellations include:

• Technical issues with aircraft operating between the islands

• Staff shortages affecting SATA Air Açores, the main carrier at Corvo Airport

• Regulatory restrictions on small airports with limited operational hours

• Operational constraints as only a handful of flights operate from Corvo daily

What to Do If Your Flight Is Cancelled at Corvo Airport?

1. Check for an Alternative Flight

Since Corvo Airport has limited connections, the quickest solution may be to reroute through Flores Airport (FLW). SATA Air Açores operates frequent flights between Corvo and Flores, so you might be able to take the next available flight and connect from there.

How to reach Flores if flights are unavailable?

• By boat: A ferry service connects Corvo and Flores, usually taking about 40 minutes. If you can’t get a flight, this is your best alternative to reach another airport.

• By rescheduled flight: If the airline offers a rebooking, ask if they can arrange a seat on the next flight to Flores and from there to your final destination.

2. Know Your Passenger Rights – You May Be Entitled to Compensation

Under EU Regulation EC 261/2004, you may be eligible for financial compensation if your flight was cancelled without prior notice of at least 14 days and if the reason for cancellation is within the airline’s control.

How much compensation can you get?

• €250 for flights under 1,500 km (most Azores inter-island flights)

• €400 - €600 for longer flights if Corvo was part of an international connection

If the cancellation was due to extraordinary circumstances (e.g., extreme weather), compensation may not apply, but the airline must still provide assistance such as food, accommodation, and a replacement flight.

3. Request Immediate Assistance from the Airline

If your flight is cancelled, the airline is legally required to offer assistance, including:

• Food and drinks if the delay is extended

• Hotel accommodation if you're stranded overnight

• Rebooking on the next available flight, even if it’s operated by a different airline

At Corvo Airport, where amenities are limited, it’s essential to ask the airline to provide a clear alternative as soon as possible.

Flying to Mainland Portugal or Other Azores Islands? Consider These Options

If you're trying to reach mainland Portugal or another island, consider checking departure options from Flores Airport. SATA Air Açores operates flights from Flores to Ponta Delgada (PDL), Terceira (TER), and Horta (HOR), where you have better chances of securing a flight connection.

To reach mainland Portugal, the best option is usually to connect through Ponta Delgada or Terceira, where direct flights to Lisbon and Porto are available.

Avoiding Future Cancellations: Best Times to Fly from Corvo

Because Corvo Airport is prone to weather disruptions, planning your trip wisely can minimize risks. Here are some tips:

• Fly early in the day – Later flights are more likely to be delayed or cancelled if weather conditions worsen.

• Avoid winter months (November – March) when storms are more frequent.

• Check ferry schedules in advance in case an alternative route via Flores is necessary.

• Book flexible tickets that allow free changes in case of disruptions.

How to Claim Compensation for a Cancelled Flight at Corvo Airport

If you believe you're eligible for compensation under EC261, follow these steps:

1. Request a written statement from the airline confirming the reason for the cancellation.

2. Keep your boarding pass and booking confirmation as proof of your travel details.

3. File a claim online through a compensation service or directly with the airline.

4. If the airline rejects your claim, escalate to the National Civil Aviation Authority in Portugal or use a legal service to fight for your rights.

Don’t Let a Cancelled Flight Cost You – Get Up to €600 in Compensation!

If your flight from Corvo Airport was cancelled, you might be owed money. Many passengers never claim their rightful compensation, but we can help you get what you deserve.

Check if you qualify for up to €600 – it only takes a minute!