Pisa, home to the world-famous Leaning Tower and one of Tuscany’s busiest airports, welcomes millions of travelers each year. However, flight cancellations at Pisa International Airport (PSA) are more common than you might think. Whether due to technical issues, strikes, or bad weather, a cancelled flight can turn your travel plans upside down. The good news? You might be entitled to compensation of up to €600 under EC261. Let’s break down your rights and what steps to take.
Flight cancellations happen for a variety of reasons, and knowing why your flight was cancelled can help you determine whether you qualify for compensation. Some of the most common causes include:
Pisa enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, but strong winds, fog, or storms can sometimes disrupt flights. If your flight was cancelled due to extreme weather, the airline is not obliged to compensate you, but they must provide an alternative flight or a refund.
Strikes by airline staff, air traffic controllers, or airport workers can lead to mass cancellations. If the strike is within the airline’s control, such as a pilot strike, you may be entitled to compensation.
If your airline cancels your flight due to mechanical failures or maintenance issues, you are likely eligible for compensation.
Some airlines overbook flights to maximize profits, leading to cancellations if too many passengers show up. In these cases, you can claim compensation.
A cancelled flight doesn’t mean you’re stuck. Here are alternative options to continue your journey:
Florence Airport (Peretola) is just 80 km from Pisa and may have available flights with different airlines. You can reach Florence Airport by:
Train: A direct train from Pisa Centrale to Firenze Santa Maria Novella takes about an hour.
Bus: Several bus services operate between Pisa and Florence Airport.
Taxi: A taxi ride takes around 1 hour and costs approximately €150.
Bologna’s Guglielmo Marconi Airport is a major hub with many international connections. You can get there by:
Train: Pisa to Bologna Centrale takes about 2 hours.
Bus: Some shuttle services run directly between Pisa and Bologna Airport.
Car Rental: If your airline reimburses your expenses, renting a car is a viable option.
If your destination is within Italy, taking a high-speed train from Pisa to Milan, Rome, or Venice might be a faster and more reliable option than waiting for another flight.
Under EU Regulation EC261, passengers whose flights are cancelled less than 14 days before departure may be entitled to compensation if the airline is responsible for the cancellation. Here’s what you could claim:
€250 for flights under 1,500 km
€400 for flights between 1,500 – 3,500 km
€600 for flights over 3,500 km
Not all cancellations qualify for compensation. The airline is exempt from paying if:
The cancellation was due to extraordinary circumstances (e.g., extreme weather, security threats, political instability).
You were notified more than 14 days in advance.
You were offered an alternative flight with a similar schedule.
Getting compensation doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow these steps:
Ask for a clear reason why your flight was cancelled. This is crucial for your claim.
Hold onto your boarding pass, booking confirmation, and any emails from the airline.
If your flight is cancelled, the airline must offer you either a full refund or an alternative flight.
Don’t leave money on the table! If your flight was cancelled in Pisa, you might be eligible for compensation. Our team at Trouble Flight will handle your claim, making sure you get what you’re entitled to.
If your cancellation forced you to pay for extra meals, hotel stays, or transportation, the airline should cover these costs. Always keep your receipts!
You have up to 3 years to claim compensation, but the sooner you act, the better. Start your claim today, and we’ll fight for your compensation while you focus on your next adventure!