Friedrichshafen Airport (FDH) serves as a key regional gateway in southern Germany, offering both domestic and international flights. Whether you're flying for business, leisure, or connecting to another destination, a flight delay can throw your plans into chaos. But did you know that under EC261/2004, you may be entitled to compensation of up to €600 for delays exceeding three hours? Let’s break down your rights and what you can do to turn this inconvenience into an opportunity.
Flight delays can happen for various reasons, including:
Weather conditions: Situated near Lake Constance and the Alps, Friedrichshafen sometimes experiences fog, storms, or sudden changes in wind patterns that can disrupt flight schedules.
Technical issues: Aircraft maintenance problems or unexpected malfunctions often lead to delays.
Air traffic congestion: Despite being a regional airport, Friedrichshafen connects to major hubs like Frankfurt and Munich, leading to occasional air traffic delays.
Operational challenges: Strikes, staff shortages, or airport system failures can impact flights.
Regardless of the cause, if your flight was delayed for reasons within the airline’s control, you may be eligible for financial compensation.
Under EU Regulation EC261/2004, passengers whose flights are delayed by more than three hours have the right to compensation. The amount depends on the flight distance:
Up to 1,500 km: €250 per passenger
Between 1,500 km and 3,500 km: €400 per passenger
Over 3,500 km (for non-EU destinations): €600 per passenger
To qualify:
The delay must be at least three hours.
The departure must be from an EU airport or an EU airline must operate the flight.
The delay must not be due to extraordinary circumstances such as extreme weather or security threats.
If you find yourself facing a significant delay, here’s what you should do:
Check the delay time: Confirm the expected departure time and document all announcements from the airline.
Ask for assistance: Airlines must provide meals, refreshments, and accommodation if necessary.
Collect proof: Take pictures of the flight board, save your ticket, and get a written confirmation from the airline.
Do not accept vouchers: Airlines may offer vouchers instead of compensation, but you have the right to cash compensation.
Submit a compensation claim: You can file directly with the airline, but they may delay or deny your request. Trouble Flight can handle the process for you efficiently and legally.
If your flight delay in Friedrichshafen disrupts your schedule, consider alternative travel options:
Other nearby airports: Memmingen Airport (FMM) is just 80 km away and offers alternative flights to many European destinations.
Train connections: Friedrichshafen has excellent rail links to cities like Munich, Zurich, and Stuttgart.
Bus transfers: Companies like FlixBus operate services to larger airports where you might find a faster alternative route.
Some of the most common delayed routes from Friedrichshafen include:
Friedrichshafen to London Gatwick (frequent technical and weather-related delays)
Friedrichshafen to Palma de Mallorca (high traffic during peak seasons)
Friedrichshafen to Frankfurt (short-haul flights often affected by airport congestion)
If you were on one of these flights and faced a long delay, you should definitely check if you are entitled to compensation.
Once a claim is submitted, the process can take a few weeks to several months, depending on how cooperative the airline is. With Trouble Flight handling your claim, we ensure that airlines comply with EU regulations and that you receive the compensation you are owed as quickly as possible.
No win, no fee: You pay nothing unless we successfully claim your compensation.
Fast & hassle-free: We handle all communication with the airline on your behalf.
Expert support: Our team specializes in passenger rights under EC261/2004.
Flight delays are frustrating, but they don’t have to be a total loss. You may be owed up to €600 per passenger for your inconvenience. Let Trouble Flight help you claim what’s rightfully yours.
Check your flight now and start your compensation process in minutes!