Flight Delayed in Iceland? Here’s How to Get Compensation

What to Do If Your Flight is Delayed in Iceland

Iceland is a breathtaking destination, famous for its natural wonders like geysers, glaciers, and the Northern Lights. But while the landscapes are stunning, unexpected flight delays can quickly turn your travel plans into a nightmare. If you’ve been stuck in Iceland due to a delayed flight, you may be entitled to compensation of up to €600 under EC261/2004 regulations. Here’s everything you need to know about your rights and how to claim what’s owed to you.

Why Are Flights Often Delayed in Iceland?

Iceland's unpredictable weather is a major factor in flight disruptions. Strong winds, heavy snowfall, and volcanic activity can lead to sudden delays. However, technical issues and airline mismanagement also play a role. Regardless of the reason, if your flight is delayed for over three hours and it’s the airline’s fault, you may qualify for compensation.

Are You Eligible for Compensation?

Under EC261/2004, the European law that protects air passengers, you may be entitled to financial compensation if:

• Your flight departed from or arrived in Iceland on an EU-based airline.

• The delay exceeded three hours at arrival.

• The delay was due to the airline’s fault (not bad weather or extraordinary circumstances like volcanic eruptions).

• Your flight was within the past three years.

Compensation varies based on distance:

• €250 for flights up to 1,500 km.

• €400 for flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km.

• €600 for flights over 3,500 km.

Steps to Claim Compensation

1. Check Your Flight Details

Use our free compensation calculator to verify if your flight delay qualifies under EU law.

2. Gather Your Documents

You’ll need:

• Flight ticket and booking confirmation

• Boarding pass

• Delay confirmation from the airline (if available)

• Any receipts for additional expenses due to the delay

3. Submit Your Claim

Many airlines will try to deny your claim or delay the process. That’s where we come in! Trouble Flight specializes in getting compensation from airlines, handling all the legal aspects so you don’t have to.

Top Airports in Iceland Where Delays Occur

Keflavík International Airport (KEF)

This is Iceland’s main international gateway, handling millions of passengers annually. Winter storms and airline overbooking are common causes of delays here.

Reykjavík Domestic Airport (RKV)

While mostly serving domestic routes, weather conditions can cause chain delays that affect international flights via connections.

Alternative Travel Plans If Your Flight is Delayed

If you’re stuck in Iceland due to a delay, here’s what you can do:

• Rebook on another airline: Check for alternative flights from Keflavík or Reykjavík Airport. If a flight from another airline is available, consider booking a last-minute ticket and later claiming the cost from the original airline if applicable.

• Look into ferries and trains: If you were connecting via Iceland to other Nordic countries, explore ferry options to Denmark or Norway.

• Stay the night and explore: If you have an unexpected overnight delay, the airline may provide a hotel stay and meals. While waiting, explore Reykjavík’s attractions, such as the Blue Lagoon or Hallgrímskirkja.

What If the Airline Refuses to Pay?

Airlines often reject claims, but that doesn’t mean you aren’t entitled to compensation. If your flight was delayed due to the airline’s responsibility and they refuse to pay, Trouble Flight can take legal action on your behalf. We handle all the paperwork and legal processes so you can relax while we fight for your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get compensation if my flight was delayed due to weather?

Unfortunately, bad weather is considered an extraordinary circumstance, so airlines are not required to compensate for delays caused by severe storms, snow, or volcanic activity.

What if I missed a connecting flight because of the delay?

If your entire journey was booked under one reservation, and you missed a connection due to a delay in Iceland, you may be eligible for compensation.

Does it matter which airline I was flying with?

Yes! If you were flying with an EU-based airline (such as Icelandair or Lufthansa), you are covered for both departures from and arrivals in Iceland. If you were flying with a non-EU airline (such as Delta or Air Canada), your compensation rights only apply if your flight departed from Iceland.

Get What You Deserve – Claim Your Compensation Now!

Don’t let a flight delay ruin your travel plans without fighting for your rights. If your flight was delayed in Iceland, you could receive up to €600 in compensation. Trouble Flight makes the process simple, handling all the claims for you while you sit back and wait for your payout.

Check if you're eligible now – it only takes a minute!