Flight Cancelled in Palanga? Here’s How to Get Compensation

What to Do If Your Flight from Palanga Is Cancelled

Palanga International Airport (PLQ) is the gateway to Lithuania’s stunning Baltic coast. Serving both domestic and international routes, it’s an important hub for travelers heading to and from Western Europe. However, flight cancellations can disrupt your plans, leaving you stranded and uncertain about what to do next.

If your flight from Palanga has been cancelled, don’t panic. Under EU Regulation 261/2004, airlines are required to compensate passengers for disruptions, provided the cancellation was within their control. You could be entitled to up to €600 in compensation for the inconvenience. Here’s everything you need to know.

Why Do Flights Get Cancelled in Palanga?

Flight cancellations at Palanga Airport can happen for several reasons, including:

• Bad Weather: Coastal storms and fog can disrupt flights, particularly in winter.

• Technical Issues: Airlines may cancel flights due to maintenance or mechanical problems.

• Staff Strikes: Air traffic control or airline crew strikes can lead to widespread cancellations.

• Low Demand: Some airlines cancel flights if there aren’t enough passengers.

• Operational Problems: Mismanagement or scheduling conflicts can lead to last-minute cancellations.

Can I Get Compensation for a Cancelled Flight in Palanga?

Yes, if the airline is responsible for the cancellation and did not inform you at least 14 days in advance, you can claim compensation. The amount you can receive depends on the flight distance:

• Up to 1,500 km (e.g., Palanga to Stockholm) → €250

• 1,500 - 3,500 km (e.g., Palanga to London) → €400

• Over 3,500 km (e.g., Palanga to Dubai) → €600

However, if the cancellation was due to extraordinary circumstances (e.g., severe weather or air traffic control restrictions), airlines are not required to pay compensation.

Alternative Airports Near Palanga

If your flight is cancelled, consider checking flights from Kaunas Airport (KUN) or Riga International Airport (RIX). These airports offer more frequent connections, and you might find an alternative route with another airline.

How to Get to Kaunas or Riga from Palanga

• To Kaunas Airport (KUN): Take a bus from Palanga to Klaipėda, then a train or bus to Kaunas.

• To Riga International Airport (RIX): Take a direct bus from Palanga to Riga; it takes about 4 hours.

How to Claim Compensation for a Cancelled Flight

If your flight was cancelled and the airline is responsible, follow these steps to claim your compensation:

1. Check Your Flight Details – Make sure your flight falls under EU261 coverage.

2. Request a Written Explanation – Ask the airline why the flight was cancelled.

3. Keep All Documents – Boarding passes, booking confirmations, and any airline communication are crucial.

4. Submit a Claim – You can do this directly with the airline or use a professional service to handle it for you.

What If the Airline Offers a Voucher Instead of Cash?

Some airlines try to compensate passengers with vouchers instead of money. You are not required to accept this. Insist on monetary compensation, as vouchers often have restrictions and expiration dates.

Your Passenger Rights Under EU261

• Right to Compensation: Up to €600 for cancellations within the airline’s control.

• Right to Care: Free meals, accommodation (if needed), and transport if your new flight is delayed.

• Right to Rebooking: The airline must offer an alternative flight or a refund.

Airlines Operating from Palanga

Some of the main airlines flying from Palanga include:

• Ryanair (low-cost routes across Europe)

• airBaltic (connections to major European cities)

• Norwegian (seasonal flights)

Final Advice: Act Fast and Claim What’s Yours

If your flight from Palanga was cancelled, don’t let the airline delay or avoid your compensation. Airlines are obligated to pay, and many hope that passengers will give up. Stand up for your rights and ensure you receive up to €600 in compensation.

Get started today and claim what’s rightfully yours!