Flight Cancelled in Turkey? Here’s What to Do and How to Claim Compensation

Your Flight Got Cancelled in Turkey? Here’s How to Handle It

Turkey is a vibrant travel hub, home to major international airports such as Istanbul Airport (IST), Sabiha Gökçen (SAW), and Antalya Airport (AYT). Whether you're flying for business or leisure, a cancelled flight can cause major disruptions. But did you know that you may be entitled to compensation of up to €600 under certain regulations?

If your flight from Turkey was cancelled, this guide will help you understand your rights, explore alternative travel options, and ensure you get the money you deserve.

Why Was Your Flight Cancelled? Common Causes in Turkey

Airlines operating in Turkey cancel flights for various reasons, some of which may make you eligible for compensation:

1. Airline Operational Issues

• Aircraft maintenance problems

• Crew shortages or scheduling conflicts

• Overbooking and last-minute flight consolidations

2. Weather Conditions

• Heavy storms affecting Istanbul and coastal regions

• Dense fog, especially in winter months

• Strong winds disrupting flights in Antalya and Bodrum

3. Air Traffic Control Restrictions

• Congestion at Istanbul Airport (IST), one of the busiest in the world

• Airspace restrictions over Turkey due to geopolitical situations

4. Strikes & Unrest

• Airline staff strikes

• Airport ground staff or security personnel strikes

5. Extraordinary Circumstances (No Compensation)

• Terror alerts or political instability

• Natural disasters (earthquakes, volcanic eruptions)

If your flight was cancelled due to operational reasons, you can likely claim compensation. If it was an extraordinary circumstance, you may not be eligible.

What Are Your Rights If Your Flight Is Cancelled in Turkey?

Depending on where you were flying to or from, different regulations may apply:

Flights From Turkey to the EU/UK

If you were flying from Turkey to an EU country (e.g., Germany, France, Spain) or the UK, your airline must comply with EU Regulation 261/2004 and UK261.

Flights Within Turkey

If your domestic flight within Turkey was cancelled (e.g., Istanbul to Ankara), local Turkish aviation laws apply.

Flights to Turkey from the EU/UK

If your flight was operated by a European airline (e.g., Lufthansa, Air France, British Airways) but was cancelled before departure, EU laws still protect you.

How Much Compensation Can You Get for a Cancelled Flight in Turkey?

Your compensation depends on the flight distance:

• €250 – Flights under 1,500 km (e.g., Istanbul to Athens)

• €400 – Flights between 1,500-3,500 km (e.g., Istanbul to Paris)

• €600 – Flights over 3,500 km (e.g., Istanbul to New York)

To qualify for compensation:
✔️ Your flight must be cancelled less than 14 days before departure
✔️ The reason for cancellation must be within the airline’s control

What to Do Immediately After a Flight Cancellation in Turkey

1. Contact the Airline for Rebooking

• Airlines must offer you a free rebooking on the next available flight.

• If the next flight is too far away, check alternative airports like Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) or Esenboğa Airport (ESB) in Ankara.

• You can also ask about flights from nearby cities, such as Izmir or Bodrum, and take a domestic connection.

2. Request a Refund (If Needed)

• If the new flight doesn’t suit you, you can request a full refund.

• If you booked via an agency, contact them for refund processing.

3. Secure Accommodation & Meals

• If your flight was delayed overnight, the airline must provide a hotel, meals, and transport.

• If they refuse, keep your receipts—you can claim the money later.

4. Check If You Qualify for Compensation

• If your flight was cancelled due to airline-related reasons, you are entitled to money back!

• Claim up to €600 per passenger—this can add up for families!

Alternative Travel Options from Turkey

If you’re stuck in Turkey due to a cancelled flight, consider these options:

🔹 Check Nearby Airports

• Instead of waiting for a rescheduled flight, try booking a flight from Ankara Esenboğa Airport (ESB), which is a 4-hour train ride from Istanbul.

• If in southern Turkey, check Dalaman Airport (DLM) or Bodrum Airport (BJV) for alternative flights.

🔹 Take a High-Speed Train or Bus

• The YHT high-speed train connects Istanbul, Ankara, and Konya, offering fast domestic travel.

• Long-distance buses operate overnight routes between Turkish cities and even to Greece and Bulgaria.

🔹 Consider Alternative Airlines

• If your Turkish Airlines or Pegasus flight was cancelled, check low-cost airlines like SunExpress or AnadoluJet.

• Some routes also have direct ferry connections, especially in coastal areas like Bodrum.

How to Claim Compensation for a Cancelled Flight in Turkey

Follow these steps to get your money fast:

1. Collect Your Flight Details

• Flight number, booking reference, departure date

• Keep copies of tickets and receipts

2. Contact the Airline First

• Some airlines may offer vouchers instead of cash—you do not have to accept them.

• If they reject your claim, escalate the case.

3. Let Us Handle Your Claim!

• We do all the legal work for you!

• No complicated paperwork—just submit your details and we fight for your compensation.

• No win, no fee—you only pay if we win!

Your Flight Was Cancelled in Turkey? Claim Up to €600 Now!

If you’ve experienced a flight cancellation in Turkey, don’t let the airline get away with it—you could be owed hundreds of euros!

Start your claim today and get the compensation you deserve. It only takes 2 minutes to check your eligibility.

Click below to claim your money now! 🚀