Flight Delayed in Prague? Here’s How to Get Compensation!

Why Prague Is a Common Spot for Flight Delays

Prague, the enchanting capital of the Czech Republic, is a prime destination for both business and leisure travelers. With its stunning Gothic architecture, vibrant nightlife, and rich history, it's no surprise that Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG) handles millions of passengers every year. However, like any major international hub, it’s not immune to flight disruptions. Whether it's due to adverse weather conditions, airline technical issues, or air traffic control restrictions, delayed flights in Prague are a frequent occurrence.

What to Do When Your Flight Is Delayed in Prague

When faced with a flight delay in Prague, staying informed and taking the right steps can make all the difference. Here’s what you should do:

1. Check the Reason for the Delay

Not all flight delays are eligible for compensation. Under EC261/2004, only delays caused by the airline’s fault—such as technical failures or crew shortages—qualify. If the delay is due to extraordinary circumstances like extreme weather, airport strikes, or air traffic control restrictions, compensation might not apply.

2. Keep Your Boarding Pass and Travel Documents

Always keep your boarding pass, booking confirmation, and any communication from the airline about the delay. These documents are crucial when filing a compensation claim.

3. Know Your Rights

Under EU Regulation EC261, passengers on flights departing from Prague (or any EU airport) are entitled to compensation if their flight is delayed by more than 3 hours and the airline is responsible for the disruption. Compensation varies based on the flight 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

4. Get Assistance at the Airport

If your delay exceeds two hours, you are entitled to:

• Free meals and refreshments

• Two free calls, emails, or faxes

• Hotel accommodation if the delay extends overnight

• Transportation to and from the hotel

If the airline fails to provide this, keep all receipts and claim reimbursement later.

Alternative Travel Options If Your Flight Is Severely Delayed

Sometimes, delays can stretch for six hours or more, leading to significant inconvenience. If this happens, consider alternative routes:

1. Check Nearby Airports

Prague isn’t the only option! You can also look at departures from Brno Airport (BRQ) or even Dresden Airport (DRS) in Germany, just a short train ride away.

2. Travel to Another European Hub

Major European hubs like Vienna (VIE) or Munich (MUC) are accessible by train and might have alternative flights to your destination.

3. Ask the Airline for Rebooking

If your flight is significantly delayed, you can request the airline to put you on the next available flight, even with a different airline if necessary.

How to Claim Compensation for a Delayed Flight in Prague

If your flight was delayed for more than three hours and the airline was responsible, you are legally entitled to compensation. Here’s how to claim it:

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Use our free compensation checker to see if your flight qualifies.

Step 2: Gather Necessary Documents

You’ll need:

• Flight details (flight number, date, departure, and arrival airports)

• Booking confirmation and boarding pass

• Proof of delay (such as airline notifications or airport screens)

Step 3: Submit Your Claim

You can either file a claim directly with the airline or use our expert legal service to handle the process for you. Airlines often ignore or reject claims, but we ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

Common Excuses Airlines Use to Avoid Paying Compensation

Airlines often try to avoid paying compensation by claiming the delay was due to extraordinary circumstances. Some common excuses include:

• Bad weather – If other flights operated normally, this excuse doesn’t hold up.

• Technical issues – Maintenance problems are usually the airline’s responsibility.

• Crew shortages – A staffing issue isn’t an extraordinary circumstance.

• Strikes – If the airline’s own staff went on strike, compensation is still due.

Can You Get Compensation for Connecting Flights?

If you had a connecting flight and a delay in Prague caused you to miss it, you might be eligible for additional compensation, especially if both flights were booked under the same reservation.

Example: If you were flying from Prague to New York with a layover in Frankfurt, and the delay in Prague caused you to miss your transatlantic flight, the compensation is calculated based on the total journey, not just the first leg.

How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?

In the Czech Republic, passengers have up to three years to file a compensation claim. However, it’s best to file as soon as possible for the best chance of success.

Why Use a Claim Service Instead of Doing It Yourself?

While you can file a claim directly with the airline, they often use legal loopholes to reject valid claims. When you use our service:

• We handle all the legal work – No stress for you!

• We only get paid if you win – No upfront costs.

• We fight back against airline excuses – Our experts know how to push back against unfair rejections.

Final Thoughts

A delayed flight in Prague can be frustrating, but knowing your rights can turn the situation into an opportunity to claim up to €600 in compensation. Don’t let the airline get away with it—start your claim today and get what you’re owed!