Flight Cancelled in Gdańsk? Here's What You Need to Do

Understanding Flight Cancellations in Gdańsk

Gdańsk, a beautiful port city on the Baltic coast of Poland, is home to Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport (GDN). As a major gateway to the Tricity area (Gdańsk, Gdynia, and Sopot), it serves millions of passengers each year. However, like any other international airport, flight cancellations can and do happen. If your flight from or to Gdańsk was cancelled, you might be eligible for compensation under EC261/2004, a European Union regulation that protects passenger rights.

Why Was Your Flight Cancelled?

Understanding the cause of the cancellation is crucial for determining your eligibility for compensation. Here are the most common reasons flights are cancelled at Gdańsk Airport:

Airline-Related Issues (Eligible for Compensation)

• Operational disruptions – Crew shortages, technical failures, or scheduling errors.

• Overbooking – Airlines sometimes sell more tickets than available seats.

• Strikes by airline staff – When the airline’s employees go on strike, passengers may be entitled to compensation.

Extraordinary Circumstances (Not Eligible for Compensation)

• Severe weather conditions – Heavy snow or storms affecting flight safety.

• Air traffic control strikes – If ATC workers are on strike, the airline is not responsible.

• Security threats – Bomb threats or emergencies beyond airline control.

• Pandemics and government restrictions – Unexpected shutdowns due to health crises.

How Much Compensation Can You Get?

Under EU regulation EC261, compensation for a cancelled flight depends on the flight distance:

• €250 – For flights up to 1,500 km.

• €400 – For flights between 1,500 and 3,500 km.

• €600 – For flights over 3,500 km.

If your flight was cancelled less than 14 days before departure, and the airline did not provide an acceptable alternative, you can claim compensation.

Alternative Airports Near Gdańsk

If your flight was cancelled and you need to rebook quickly, consider alternative airports near Gdańsk:

• Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW) – Around 4 hours by train from Gdańsk, with a wider selection of flights.

• Poznań Ławica Airport (POZ) – A good alternative if heading west.

• Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) – A longer journey (6+ hours by train), but with many international connections.

To reach Warsaw or Poznań quickly, use PKP Intercity trains or long-distance buses like FlixBus.

What to Do If Your Flight Is Cancelled

Step 1: Contact the Airline Immediately

Airlines are required to offer a rebooking or refund. If they don’t provide a suitable alternative, you can book another flight and claim reimbursement.

Step 2: Keep All Travel Documents

Save your boarding pass, e-ticket, and any communication with the airline. These are essential when filing a compensation claim.

Step 3: Ask for Assistance

If you’re stuck at Gdańsk Airport due to a cancellation, the airline must provide food, drinks, and accommodation if needed.

Step 4: Check Your Compensation Eligibility

Use our free claim checker to see if you qualify for a payout.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Claiming Compensation

• Accepting vouchers instead of cash compensation – Vouchers may have restrictions and are often not worth as much as cash.

• Not knowing your rights – Airlines might tell you that cancellations due to “operational reasons” are not covered. This is incorrect.

• Missing deadlines – In Poland, you can claim compensation for up to 3 years after the flight.

Can You Claim Compensation for Connecting Flights?

Yes! If you had a connecting flight and the cancellation caused a delay of more than 3 hours at your final destination, you can claim compensation, even if part of your journey was outside the EU.

What If You Were Offered an Alternative Flight?

If the airline provided an alternative flight, compensation depends on the new flight’s schedule:

• Less than 2 hours delay – No compensation.

• 2-3 hours delay – 50% compensation.

• 3+ hours delay – Full compensation.

Gdańsk Airport Services for Stranded Passengers

Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport offers various services to help passengers dealing with cancellations:

• Hotels Nearby: Hampton by Hilton, Hotel Faros.

• Transportation: Direct trains and buses to the city center.

• Lounges: Business Lounge, perfect for waiting in comfort.

• Luggage Storage: In case you need to explore the city while waiting.

Conclusion: Claim What You Deserve

If your flight was cancelled in Gdańsk, don’t let the airline deny your rights. Claim up to €600 in compensation today. Check your eligibility in 3 minutes and get what you’re owed!