Łódź, Poland’s third-largest city, has seen a growing number of travelers using its Łódź Władysław Reymont Airport (LCJ). Whether flying for business or leisure, having your flight cancelled can be a frustrating experience. But did you know that under EU Regulation 261/2004, you may be entitled to financial compensation of up to €600?
This guide will help you understand your rights, explore alternative travel solutions, and ensure you don’t miss out on the compensation you deserve.
Flight cancellations can happen for various reasons, but some of the most common causes include:
Airline operational issues – Crew shortages, aircraft maintenance, or scheduling errors.
Weather conditions – Fog, snow, or storms affecting flight safety.
Air traffic control restrictions – Congestion or strikes causing flight disruptions.
Security threats – Issues requiring increased airport safety measures.
Yes, in many cases! Under EC 261/2004, passengers are entitled to compensation if their flight is cancelled less than 14 days before departure and the airline is responsible for the cancellation. Here’s what you need to know:
Compensation Amounts:
€250 for flights under 1,500 km
€400 for flights between 1,500 km – 3,500 km
€600 for flights over 3,500 km (when flying to or from a non-EU country)
Who Qualifies?
Your flight was cancelled by the airline for reasons within their control.
You were not offered a suitable alternative flight.
Your departure was from an EU airport or your flight landed in the EU with an EU-based airline.
Who Doesn’t Qualify?
Cancellations due to “extraordinary circumstances” such as natural disasters, terrorism, or severe weather.
If you accepted a rebooking and arrived at your destination at a similar time.
Łódź Władysław Reymont Airport (LCJ) is a regional airport with limited flight options. If your flight was cancelled, consider alternative routes from nearby airports:
Distance from Łódź: 130 km (1.5-hour drive)
How to Get There: Take a direct train from Łódź Fabryczna to Warsaw Central Station and then a taxi or shuttle to the airport.
Why Choose It? Being Poland’s largest airport, it offers many international flights that might serve as an alternative.
Distance from Łódź: 180 km (2-hour drive)
How to Get There: FlixBus operates services from Łódź to Katowice, from where you can take an airport transfer.
Why Choose It? A hub for budget airlines like Wizz Air, offering alternative low-cost flights.
If your flight from Łódź has been cancelled, follow these steps:
Ask the airline for the official reason—this determines your eligibility for compensation.
Airlines must offer you a choice between a full refund or an alternative flight.
Save your boarding pass, ticket, cancellation notice, and any communication from the airline.
Submit a compensation claim with the airline or let Trouble Flight handle it for you!
The deadline to claim compensation varies by country:
Poland: 1 year
Germany: 3 years
France: 5 years
United Kingdom: 6 years
Act fast to ensure you don’t lose your right to claim!
Some airlines delay or deny compensation claims. If this happens:
Seek legal assistance – Trouble Flight specializes in handling denied claims.
Submit a complaint – File with Poland’s Civil Aviation Authority (ULC).
Escalate your claim – Take legal action if necessary.
If your flight was cancelled and you had to wait overnight, the airline must provide:
Hotel accommodation
Meals and refreshments
Transport between the airport and hotel
If they didn’t, keep your receipts and claim reimbursement later.
A cancelled flight in Łódź doesn’t have to mean a total travel disaster. With the right information, you can get compensation, find alternative flights, and ensure you’re not left stranded. Check if you’re eligible for up to €600—your money is waiting for you!