Flight Delayed Hévíz-Balaton? Know Your Rights and Claim Compensation

Hévíz-Balaton Airport – A Gateway to Hungary’s Thermal Paradise

Hévíz-Balaton Airport (also known as Sármellék International Airport) serves as the key air travel hub for visitors heading to one of Europe’s most famous spa destinations. Situated near Lake Hévíz—the largest thermal lake in the world—this airport connects travelers with wellness retreats, charming Hungarian landscapes, and Lake Balaton, a popular holiday spot.

However, flight delays at Hévíz-Balaton can disrupt travel plans, leading to stress, missed connections, and financial losses. If your flight was delayed at this airport, you may be eligible for financial compensation of up to €600 under EU Regulation 261/2004.

Why Do Flights Get Delayed at Hévíz-Balaton Airport?

Flight delays can happen for various reasons, and Hévíz-Balaton Airport is no exception. Some common causes include:

1. Weather Conditions

Hévíz-Balaton Airport experiences weather fluctuations, especially during winter and autumn. Heavy fog and storms can lead to flight schedule disruptions, causing delays for inbound and outbound flights.

2. Airline Operational Issues

Sometimes, delays occur due to operational challenges within airlines, including aircraft rotation problems, missing crew members, or technical malfunctions.

3. Air Traffic Control Restrictions

Due to its proximity to several European air routes, Hévíz-Balaton Airport sometimes faces airspace congestion, resulting in extended waiting times for takeoff and landing.

4. Security and Safety Checks

Delays can also arise from rigorous security screenings or last-minute safety concerns detected before departure.

Can You Get Compensation for a Flight Delay at Hévíz-Balaton?

Yes! If your flight was delayed by more than 3 hours and the delay was due to reasons within the airline’s control (such as technical issues or crew shortages), you may be entitled to compensation. Here’s what EU261 says:

• Flights under 1,500 km (e.g., Hévíz-Balaton to Vienna): Up to €250

• Flights between 1,500 and 3,500 km (e.g., Hévíz-Balaton to London): Up to €400

• Flights over 3,500 km (outside the EU): Up to €600

The compensation applies if your flight originates from an EU airport or is operated by an EU-based airline.

What to Do If Your Flight from Hévíz-Balaton Is Delayed

If you’re stuck at Hévíz-Balaton Airport due to a flight delay, here’s what you should do:

1. Get Official Confirmation

Ask the airline for an official reason for the delay. This will help determine whether you are eligible for compensation.

2. Keep Your Travel Documents

Boarding passes, tickets, and receipts for any additional expenses (such as food or accommodation) can support your claim.

3. Request Assistance

For long delays (over 2 hours), airlines are required to provide refreshments and, if necessary, accommodation.

4. Check Compensation Eligibility

Use our online tool to see if you qualify for compensation—it only takes a few minutes.

5. Claim Your Compensation

Submit your claim with our help, and we’ll handle the process for you, ensuring you receive what you’re entitled to.

Alternative Travel Options from Hévíz-Balaton

If your delay turns into a cancellation or an extended disruption, consider alternative ways to continue your journey:

1. Nearby Airports

• Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) – The largest airport in Hungary, around 2.5 hours by car from Hévíz-Balaton.

• Vienna International Airport (VIE) – Roughly a 3-hour drive, offering numerous international connections.

2. Ground Transportation Options

• Trains & Buses: Direct bus and train connections from Hévíz to Budapest or Vienna offer alternative travel solutions.

• Car Rentals: If your flight is indefinitely delayed, renting a car might be the fastest way to reach your destination.

Common Airlines at Hévíz-Balaton and Their Delay Policies

Several airlines operate seasonal and charter flights from Hévíz-Balaton, including:

• Wizz Air – Offers compensation claims for delays exceeding 3 hours.

• Ryanair – Provides rebooking and financial reimbursement under EU261.

• Lufthansa – Offers hotel stays for extended delays.

• LOT Polish Airlines – Facilitates refund or rerouting options.

Each airline has specific delay policies, but EU regulations apply to all flights within Europe.

How Long Do You Have to Claim Compensation?

Each country has different deadlines for filing compensation claims under EU261. In Hungary, passengers have up to 5 years from the date of the flight to submit a claim.

FAQs About Flight Delays at Hévíz-Balaton Airport

What if my delay was caused by bad weather?

Unfortunately, weather-related delays are considered “extraordinary circumstances,” meaning airlines are not required to pay compensation. However, they must still offer assistance, such as food and accommodation for long delays.

Can I claim if my flight was delayed due to a strike?

If the airline staff was on strike, you can claim compensation. However, if the strike was from airport staff or air traffic control, it’s considered an extraordinary circumstance.

What happens if my flight is delayed overnight?

The airline must provide hotel accommodation, meals, and transport to and from the hotel.

Can I claim compensation if I accepted a rebooking?

Yes! Even if you accepted an alternative flight, you can still claim compensation if your original flight was delayed by more than 3 hours.

How to Claim Compensation for a Delayed Flight at Hévíz-Balaton Airport

Claiming compensation can be complex, but we make it easy:

1. Check your eligibility using our free online tool.

2. Submit your claim—we’ll handle all negotiations with the airline.

3. Get paid—if successful, you receive up to €600.

Conclusion – Don’t Let a Flight Delay at Hévíz-Balaton Cost You Money!

Flight delays at Hévíz-Balaton Airport can be frustrating, but you have rights under EU261. If your flight was delayed for more than three hours, you could receive up to €600 in compensation. Don't let airlines ignore your rights—start your claim today and get what you deserve!