Flight Delayed in Porto? Here’s How to Get Up to €600 in Compensation

Your Rights When Your Flight is Delayed in Porto

Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, is a gateway to stunning landscapes, delicious wines, and vibrant culture. However, nothing can ruin a perfect travel plan faster than a flight delay. If your flight from Porto’s Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) has been delayed for several hours, you might be entitled to financial compensation under EC261/2004, the European passenger rights regulation.

But what exactly qualifies for a compensation claim, and how much can you get? Let’s break it down.

When Can You Claim Compensation for a Flight Delay in Porto?

Under EC261, you’re eligible for compensation if:

• Your flight is delayed by at least 3 hours upon arrival at your final destination.

• The delay was not caused by extraordinary circumstances (e.g., severe weather, airport strikes, or political instability).

• Your flight departed from Porto Airport (OPO) and landed in an EU country, or was operated by an EU airline arriving in Porto from outside the EU.

The compensation amount depends on the flight distance:

Even if the airline offers you food, drinks, or hotel accommodation, you still have the right to claim money if the delay meets the above criteria.

Why Do Flights Get Delayed in Porto?

Flights from Porto Airport can be delayed due to several reasons:

• Weather Conditions – Porto’s coastal location means it can experience fog, strong winds, or rain that disrupts air traffic.

• Air Traffic Control Restrictions – Busy European airspace can lead to congestion, forcing pilots to wait for clearance.

• Technical Issues – Aircraft maintenance problems can cause unexpected delays.

• Strikes or Staff Shortages – Airlines and airport staff strikes can significantly impact departures and arrivals.

Regardless of the reason, if the airline is responsible, you should claim what is legally yours.

What to Do If Your Flight Is Delayed in Porto

If your flight is delayed for a significant amount of time, take the following steps:

1. Ask for Assistance at the Airport

Under EU law, airlines must provide free food and drinks if the delay exceeds:

• 2 hours for short-haul flights

• 3 hours for medium-haul flights

• 4 hours for long-haul flights

If your delay extends overnight, they must also provide a hotel stay and transportation to and from the airport.

2. Keep Your Travel Documents

Save your boarding pass, booking confirmation, and any receipts for additional expenses. These documents will help support your claim.

3. Get Confirmation of the Delay

Request a written statement from the airline explaining the cause of the delay. This will make your claim stronger.

4. Claim Your Compensation

Instead of struggling with paperwork, let Trouble Flight handle your claim. Our experts will fight for your rights and get you up to €600 in compensation!

Missed a Connection Due to a Flight Delay in Porto? Here’s What to Do

If your flight was part of a single booking with a layover and the delay caused you to miss your connecting flight, the airline is responsible for rebooking you on the next available flight. If no suitable option is available, you might also be entitled to financial compensation.

If you’re stranded in Porto and need to rebook a flight yourself, consider checking for alternative departures from nearby airports such as:

• Lisbon Airport (LIS) – A 3-hour train ride from Porto, offering more international flights.

• Vigo Airport (VGO), Spain – Just across the border, about 1.5 hours by car, with some European connections.

If you decide to take another flight from one of these airports, keep the receipts for any extra travel costs, as the airline may be obliged to reimburse you.

How to Get to Lisbon or Vigo from Porto

If you’re considering alternative flights, here’s how to reach nearby airports:

• Lisbon Airport (LIS): Take the Alfa Pendular train from Porto Campanhã Station to Lisbon Oriente Station (approx. 3 hours). From there, hop on the metro or a taxi to the airport.

• Vigo Airport (VGO): The fastest option is a rental car or a taxi (1.5 hours drive). Alternatively, take a train or FlixBus to Vigo city, then a local taxi to the airport.

Checking for alternative flights could be the fastest way to reach your destination and save time.

Common Excuses Airlines Use to Avoid Paying Compensation

Airlines may try to deny your claim by arguing:

1. Extraordinary Circumstances – Some airlines falsely claim technical issues or staff shortages are "out of their control."

2. The Delay Wasn’t Long Enough – They might try to reduce the total delay time on record.

3. They Already Provided Vouchers – But vouchers do not replace financial compensation!

Don’t let the airline dismiss your rights. Trouble Flight knows how to fight back and ensure you get your money.

How Long Do You Have to Claim Compensation for a Flight Delay in Porto?

Each country has different deadlines for submitting claims under EC261. In Portugal, you have 3 years from the date of your delayed flight to file a claim.

Claim Your Compensation for a Flight Delay in Porto Now!

Don’t let a flight delay ruin your trip. If your flight from Porto was delayed for 3+ hours, you could be entitled to up to €600 in compensation. Trouble Flight will handle the legal process for you, so you don’t have to waste time dealing with the airline’s excuses.

👉 Start your claim today and get the money you deserve!