Flight Cancelled in Latvia? Know Your Rights and Claim Compensation!

Understanding Flight Cancellations in Latvia

Latvia, a beautiful Baltic nation with a growing aviation sector, is home to Riga International Airport (RIX), the country’s main hub for international and domestic flights. Whether you’re flying for business or leisure, a cancelled flight can disrupt your plans significantly. However, if you were flying to or from Latvia and your flight was cancelled, you could be eligible for compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004.

Why Do Flights Get Cancelled in Latvia?

There are many reasons why flights in Latvia might be cancelled, including:

• Weather Conditions: Strong winds, heavy snowfall, or fog can force airlines to ground flights.

• Technical Issues: Airlines must ensure the safety of their passengers, so mechanical failures can lead to cancellations.

• Air Traffic Control Restrictions: With increasing flights at Riga International Airport, congestion can sometimes cause flight disruptions.

• Strikes: Pilots, cabin crew, or air traffic controllers striking can lead to mass cancellations.

• Operational Problems: Airlines may cancel flights due to aircraft shortages or scheduling conflicts.

If your flight was cancelled for reasons within the airline’s control, you have rights that entitle you to compensation.

Your Rights Under EU Regulation 261/2004

As a passenger flying from or to Latvia on an EU airline, you are protected under EC261. This means:

• If your flight was cancelled less than 14 days before departure, you could be entitled to compensation of up to €600 per passenger.

• The airline must offer you a refund or rebooking on an alternative flight.

• You have the right to food, drinks, accommodation, and transport in case of long delays caused by cancellations.

• Even if the airline offers you a voucher, you still have the right to monetary compensation.

How Much Compensation Can You Get for a Cancelled Flight?

Your compensation depends on the flight distance:

• €250 for flights up to 1,500 km.

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

• €600 for flights over 3,500 km.

If your flight was cancelled due to extraordinary circumstances, such as severe weather or terrorism threats, the airline may not be obligated to compensate you. However, don’t take the airline’s word for it—many airlines deny claims without proper justification.

What to Do If Your Flight Gets Cancelled in Latvia

If you’re stranded at Riga International Airport or any other Latvian airport, follow these steps:

1. Confirm the Reason for Cancellation: Ask the airline for a written statement explaining why your flight was cancelled.

2. Keep Your Documents: Boarding passes, booking confirmations, and airline communications will help support your claim.

3. Request Assistance: If you have to wait for a rebooked flight, the airline must provide meals, drinks, and accommodation if necessary.

4. Check for Alternative Flights: If your flight from Riga is cancelled, consider checking flights from Tallinn (Estonia) or Vilnius (Lithuania), which are reachable by bus or train.

5. Claim Your Compensation: Use a reliable service like Trouble Flight to file your claim hassle-free.

Can You Get a Refund Instead of Compensation?

Yes, if your flight was cancelled, you have the right to:

• A full refund of your ticket price if you no longer wish to travel.

• A rebooking on the next available flight at no extra cost.

• An alternative transport arrangement to reach your final destination.

But remember: a refund does not replace compensation. You may still be entitled to up to €600!

Alternative Travel Options if Your Flight is Cancelled in Latvia

Latvia has great connectivity, so if your flight is cancelled and you need to get to another destination urgently, consider these alternatives:

• Riga to Tallinn: A 4-hour bus ride or a short connecting flight can take you to Estonia’s capital, where more flight options may be available.

• Riga to Vilnius: The Lithuanian capital is about a 3.5-hour drive away and offers alternative flights.

• Ferry to Sweden: If heading towards Scandinavia, you can take a ferry to Stockholm from Riga.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my flight was cancelled due to bad weather?

Bad weather is considered an extraordinary circumstance, meaning the airline does not have to pay compensation. However, they must still offer you a refund or rebooking.

What if I already accepted a voucher from the airline?

Many airlines offer vouchers instead of cash, but you are not obligated to accept them. You can still claim monetary compensation.

Can I claim compensation for a flight that was cancelled months ago?

Yes! You have up to three years to file a claim in most cases, depending on the country’s local laws.

Claim Your Compensation Now!

Don’t let a cancelled flight in Latvia ruin your travel plans. If your flight was cancelled within the last three years, you may be eligible for compensation. Check your eligibility now and claim up to €600!