Flying to or from Faro Airport (FAO) and suddenly facing a flight cancellation? Whether you’re on a holiday in the Algarve or heading home, a cancelled flight can cause unnecessary stress and disruption. But did you know that under EC261/2004, you could be entitled to compensation of up to €600 per passenger? Here’s what you need to know about your rights and how to maximize your claim if your flight is cancelled in Faro.
Faro is one of Portugal’s busiest airports, especially during the summer months when tourists flood the Algarve. Several factors can lead to flight cancellations:
Weather Conditions: Sudden storms, fog, or extreme heat waves can make takeoff or landing unsafe.
Air Traffic Control Restrictions: Overcrowding in European airspace can lead to cancellations, especially for flights heading to the UK or Germany.
Technical Failures: Airlines may cancel flights due to aircraft malfunctions or maintenance issues.
Strikes: Airline staff, air traffic controllers, or ground handling personnel striking can disrupt schedules.
Operational Issues: Flight crew shortages or airline mismanagement can result in last-minute cancellations.
Under EU Regulation EC261/2004, passengers are entitled to compensation if their flight is cancelled less than 14 days before departure and the airline is responsible for the cancellation. You can claim:
€250 for flights under 1,500 km
€400 for flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km
€600 for flights over 3,500 km (when departing from the EU or arriving in the EU with an EU carrier)
Not all cancellations qualify for compensation. If your flight was cancelled due to extraordinary circumstances like extreme weather, air traffic control decisions, or security threats, the airline is not obligated to compensate you. However, they must still offer a refund or rebook you on the next available flight.
If you find yourself stranded in Faro due to a cancellation, here’s what you should do:
The airline must provide you with two options:
A full refund of your ticket
Re-routing to your final destination at the earliest possible opportunity
If your next available flight is departing from Lisbon Airport (LIS), consider taking a bus or train from Faro to Lisbon, which takes approximately 3 hours. Some airlines may cover the transportation cost, so always ask!
Even if the airline rebooks you, you might still be entitled to compensation. Use our online compensation checker to verify your eligibility within minutes.
If you’re stuck at Faro Airport overnight due to a cancellation, the airline must provide:
Meals and refreshments
Hotel accommodation if necessary
Transport between the airport and hotel
Two free calls or emails
Save your boarding pass, cancellation notification, meal vouchers, hotel receipts, and any written communication with the airline. These documents strengthen your claim.
If your flight is cancelled and rebooking isn’t an option, consider alternative airports nearby to book another flight:
Lisbon Airport (LIS) – 280 km from Faro, reachable by train, bus, or rental car.
Seville Airport (SVQ), Spain – 200 km from Faro, accessible in under 2 hours by car.
Booking a flight from another airport might save you time compared to waiting for the next available flight from Faro. Check alternative airlines for last-minute options.
The process of claiming EC261 compensation can be time-consuming, especially when airlines try to avoid payouts. Here’s the easiest way to get your money:
Check your eligibility – Use our free tool to see if you qualify.
Submit your claim – Provide your flight details and supporting documents.
Let us handle the process – We negotiate with the airline on your behalf.
Receive your compensation – If successful, you’ll get up to €600 directly in your account!
The process typically takes between 2 weeks to 3 months, depending on how cooperative the airline is. If they refuse to pay, we can take legal action on your behalf.
Unfortunately, no. Weather-related cancellations fall under extraordinary circumstances, meaning the airline is not obligated to compensate you.
Low-cost airlines must follow the same EU laws as full-service carriers. If your Ryanair or easyJet flight from Faro was cancelled under qualifying conditions, you can still claim compensation.
COVID-19-related cancellations often fall under extraordinary circumstances, meaning airlines are not required to compensate passengers. However, you’re still entitled to a refund or rebooking.
A flight cancellation can disrupt your travel plans, but it doesn’t have to mean financial loss. If your flight from Faro Airport (FAO) was cancelled under circumstances within the airline’s control, you have the right to claim up to €600 per passenger.
Don’t wait—submit your claim today and let us handle the rest while you focus on your next adventure!