Szeged, the sunniest city in Hungary, is a charming destination known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and renowned university. Although Szeged Airport (QZD) is small and primarily used for private and chartered flights, cancellations can still occur due to operational issues, weather conditions, or airline disruptions. If you’ve experienced a cancelled flight from Szeged, you might be eligible for compensation under European passenger rights law.
While Szeged Airport is not a major international hub, flights can still be cancelled for a variety of reasons, including:
Weather conditions: Fog, strong winds, or sudden storms can lead to flight disruptions.
Technical failures: Aircraft maintenance issues or mechanical failures can result in last-minute cancellations.
Airline operational problems: Staffing shortages, scheduling conflicts, or financial troubles can impact flight operations.
Airport-related issues: As a smaller airport, Szeged may experience delays or closures due to infrastructure maintenance.
As Szeged is within the European Union, flights departing from here fall under EC261/2004, the EU’s air passenger rights regulation. This means that if your flight was cancelled and you were not informed at least 14 days in advance, you could be entitled to compensation of up to €600 per passenger, depending on the distance of your flight.
Up to 1,500 km → €250 per passenger
Between 1,500 – 3,500 km → €400 per passenger
More than 3,500 km → €600 per passenger
Additionally, you are entitled to alternative transportation or a full refund of your ticket if your flight is cancelled.
Since Szeged Airport handles limited commercial traffic, passengers facing cancellations should consider rerouting through Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD), Hungary’s largest airport, located about 170 km from Szeged. Here’s how you can reach Budapest Airport:
Train: Regular trains run from Szeged to Budapest-Nyugati station, from where you can take a direct airport shuttle.
Bus: Long-distance buses operate between Szeged and Budapest’s main transport hubs.
Car rental or taxi: A private ride to Budapest Airport takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Checking alternative flights from Budapest could help you reach your destination sooner.
Confirm eligibility: Check whether your flight cancellation falls under EC261 and if you received proper notice from the airline.
Gather evidence: Keep your booking confirmation, cancellation notice, and any alternative travel arrangements provided.
Request compensation: You can contact the airline directly or use a professional service like Trouble Flight to handle your claim efficiently.
Follow up: If the airline refuses to pay, you have the right to escalate the claim to enforcement bodies or legal channels.
Not all cancellations qualify for compensation. If your flight was cancelled due to extraordinary circumstances, such as severe weather, security threats, or air traffic control strikes, the airline is not required to pay compensation. However, they must provide meals, accommodation (if necessary), and a rebooking or refund.
The time limit for claiming compensation varies by country. In Hungary, passengers typically have up to 5 years to submit a claim for a cancelled flight under EC261.
At Trouble Flight, we specialize in helping passengers claim what’s rightfully theirs. We handle all the paperwork and negotiations with airlines, ensuring you get your compensation as quickly as possible. If your flight from Szeged was cancelled, don’t let your rights go unnoticed—start your claim today and get up to €600 per passenger!