Flight Cancelled in Ostrava – What to Do and How to Get Compensation

Understanding Flight Cancellations in Ostrava

Ostrava, the third-largest city in the Czech Republic, is home to Leoš Janáček Airport Ostrava (OSR). While not as busy as Prague’s Václav Havel Airport, it serves a mix of domestic and international flights, especially seasonal and charter routes. If you were supposed to depart from Ostrava and your flight was cancelled, don’t panic—there are steps you can take to minimize disruptions and potentially receive compensation.

Why Do Flights Get Cancelled in Ostrava?

There are several reasons why your flight from Ostrava might have been cancelled:

• Weather Conditions: Heavy fog, snow, or thunderstorms often disrupt flights in the region.

• Airline Operational Issues: Crew shortages, aircraft maintenance, or scheduling problems.

• Strikes and Air Traffic Control Restrictions: Airline or airport staff strikes can ground flights unexpectedly.

• Technical Failures: Aircraft-related issues that compromise safety.

• Low Demand or Route Adjustments: Airlines may cancel flights if passenger numbers are too low.

Regardless of the reason, you have rights under EC 261/2004 if your flight was departing from Ostrava within the EU.

Your Passenger Rights for Cancelled Flights from Ostrava

Under EC 261/2004, passengers flying from Ostrava Airport have clear rights when faced with a cancellation. Depending on the circumstances, you may be entitled to:

1. Compensation of up to €600

If your flight was cancelled less than 14 days before departure and the airline is responsible (not due to extraordinary circumstances like extreme weather), you can claim:

• €250 for flights up to 1,500 km (e.g., Ostrava to Vienna)

• €400 for flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km (e.g., Ostrava to London)

• €600 for flights over 3,500 km (e.g., Ostrava to Dubai)

2. Right to a Refund or Alternative Flight

Your airline must offer you either:

• A full refund of your ticket price within 7 days, OR

• An alternative flight to your destination at no extra cost.

3. Right to Care

If you’re stuck at the airport waiting for your replacement flight, the airline must provide:

• Meals and refreshments

• Accommodation (if needed)

• Transport between airport and hotel

• Two free phone calls, emails, or faxes

Alternative Travel Options if Your Flight is Cancelled in Ostrava

Since Leoš Janáček Airport is relatively small, flight options can be limited. If your flight is cancelled, consider these alternatives:

1. Check Flights from Nearby Airports

If your flight was cancelled and you urgently need to reach your destination, check if flights are available from:

• Katowice International Airport (KTW), Poland – About 90 km from Ostrava, reachable by train or car.

• Brno-Tuřany Airport (BRQ), Czech Republic – About 170 km away.

• Kraków John Paul II Airport (KRK), Poland – A larger international airport, 190 km away.

2. Take a Train or Bus to a Major Hub

Ostrava has excellent rail connections. If flights from Ostrava are disrupted, consider taking a train or bus to:

• Prague (Václav Havel Airport)

• Vienna (Vienna International Airport)

Both cities have frequent direct flights to major European and international destinations.

How to Claim Compensation for a Cancelled Flight from Ostrava

If your flight from Ostrava was cancelled, follow these steps to claim your compensation:

Step 1: Confirm the Reason for Cancellation

The airline must inform you why your flight was cancelled. If they blame “extraordinary circumstances,” ask for proof. Airlines sometimes wrongly claim bad weather when the real reason is an operational issue.

Step 2: Keep Your Documents

Save your:

• Boarding pass or ticket

• Email confirmation from the airline

• Receipts for any additional expenses (food, hotel, transport)

Step 3: File a Compensation Claim

You can submit a claim directly to the airline, but many airlines delay or reject claims unfairly. For a hassle-free process, you can let Trouble Flight handle everything for you. We will:

• Assess your eligibility for compensation

• Negotiate with the airline on your behalf

• Ensure you get the maximum payout

What If the Airline Refuses to Pay?

If the airline denies your claim, you still have options:

• Escalate to the Czech Civil Aviation Authority (Úřad pro civilní letectví)

• Take legal action (which Trouble Flight can assist with)

Many passengers give up when airlines delay payments, but with the right support, you can successfully claim what you’re owed.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let a Cancelled Flight in Ostrava Cost You!

A flight cancellation in Ostrava can be frustrating, but you have rights. Whether you choose an alternative route, book a different airport, or claim compensation, don’t let airlines avoid their responsibilities. With Trouble Flight, you can ensure you receive the compensation you deserve—up to €600 in just a few clicks!