Flight Cancelled Riga – What to Do Next and How to Get Compensation

Flight Cancellations in Riga: Know Your Rights and Next Steps

Riga, the capital of Latvia, is a major travel hub in the Baltic region. Riga International Airport (RIX) connects passengers to numerous European destinations. However, like any airport, flight cancellations can occur due to weather, technical issues, or airline disruptions. If your flight from Riga was cancelled, you may be eligible for compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004.

Why Do Flights Get Cancelled in Riga?

Several factors can lead to flight cancellations at Riga International Airport:

• Adverse Weather Conditions – Heavy snowfall and fog in winter can lead to operational disruptions.

• Technical Failures – Aircraft maintenance issues often result in last-minute cancellations.

• Airline Strikes – Pilots, cabin crew, or air traffic controllers going on strike can ground flights.

• Overbooked Flights – Airlines sometimes sell more tickets than available seats, causing forced rebookings.

• Air Traffic Congestion – High traffic during peak seasons can lead to unexpected schedule changes.

Understanding the reason behind your flight cancellation is crucial in determining if you qualify for compensation.

Am I Eligible for Compensation If My Flight Was Cancelled in Riga?

If your flight from Riga was cancelled, EU Regulation 261/2004 states that you could be entitled to up to €600 in compensation, provided the cancellation was not due to extraordinary circumstances like extreme weather or airport security threats. Here’s what you need to check:

• Your flight was departing from Riga International Airport (RIX) or was operated by an EU airline arriving in Riga.

• The airline informed you of the cancellation less than 14 days before departure.

• The airline was responsible for the cancellation (e.g., technical issues, staff shortages).

• You either weren’t offered an alternative flight, or the rebooked flight significantly disrupted your schedule.

If these conditions apply, you have a strong case for compensation.

What to Do If Your Flight from Riga Is Cancelled

1. Check for Alternative Flights

First, visit the airline’s service desk or website to see if they have rebooked you on another flight. If you need to fly out of Riga urgently, consider checking flights from Kaunas International Airport (KUN) in Lithuania, which is approximately 260 km away. You can reach Kaunas by bus or car in about 3.5 hours.

2. Request Immediate Assistance

Under EU law, airlines must provide necessary assistance if your flight is cancelled. This includes:

• Food and drinks if you experience long waiting times.

• Hotel accommodation if the next flight is scheduled for the following day.

• Transport between the airport and your accommodation.

3. Keep All Your Documents

Make sure to save your:

• Boarding pass or e-ticket confirmation.

• Any communication from the airline about the cancellation.

• Receipts for expenses incurred due to the cancellation (food, hotels, alternative transport).

These documents will be crucial when filing a compensation claim.

How Much Compensation Can You Get?

The amount you can claim depends on the flight distance:

• Flights under 1,500 km – €250 per passenger.

• Flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km – €400 per passenger.

• Flights over 3,500 km – €600 per passenger.

For example, if your cancelled flight from Riga was to Paris (1,875 km), you could be entitled to €400 per passenger.

How to Claim Your Compensation

1. Submit a Complaint to the Airline

Start by contacting the airline and requesting compensation under EU261. Some airlines provide online claim forms for this process.

2. Use a Compensation Claim Service

If the airline refuses or delays your claim, you can use a legal service like Trouble Flight to handle the process. We specialize in securing compensation quickly, with no upfront costs—you only pay if we win.

3. Escalate the Case if Necessary

If the airline ignores your request, escalate your complaint to the Latvian Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) or take legal action.

Can I Get Compensation If the Airline Offers a Refund?

Yes! Even if the airline refunds your ticket, you can still claim compensation if the cancellation meets the criteria under EU261. Airlines sometimes offer refunds to avoid paying additional compensation—don’t let them trick you into settling for less than you deserve.

What If My Flight Was Cancelled Due to Extraordinary Circumstances?

Airlines are not required to compensate passengers if the cancellation was due to:

• Severe weather conditions (e.g., heavy snowstorms, extreme turbulence)

• Political unrest or terrorism threats

• Airport staff strikes (not airline staff)

• Medical emergencies on board

However, even in such cases, the airline must still offer a refund or an alternative flight.

How to Avoid Future Cancellations When Flying from Riga

While flight cancellations are often unpredictable, you can take some steps to reduce your risk:

• Book morning flights – These are less likely to be affected by delays from earlier flights.

• Avoid tight layovers – If your connection is too short, a cancellation could ruin your trip.

• Fly with reputable airlines – Some budget carriers have higher cancellation rates due to operational issues.

• Check airport conditions in advance – Weather disruptions in winter are common in Riga, so prepare accordingly.

Conclusion – Get Your Compensation Now

If your flight from Riga was cancelled, you may be eligible for up to €600 in compensation. Don’t let the airlines keep what’s rightfully yours—file your claim with Trouble Flight today and get your money back hassle-free!