Flight Delayed at Sumburgh Airport? Know Your Rights and Claim Compensation

Understanding Flight Delays at Sumburgh Airport

Sumburgh Airport (LSI) is the main gateway to the Shetland Islands, connecting this remote yet stunning part of Scotland to the UK mainland and beyond. While its location makes it a vital transport hub, it also means that unpredictable weather conditions frequently disrupt flights. If you’ve faced a flight delay at Sumburgh Airport, you might be entitled to compensation under EC261/2004 regulations.

Why Do Flights Get Delayed at Sumburgh Airport?

Several factors contribute to flight delays at Sumburgh Airport:

• Weather Conditions: Due to its northern location, Sumburgh often experiences high winds, fog, and storms, making flight schedules unpredictable.

• Technical Issues: Airlines sometimes delay flights due to necessary maintenance or aircraft swaps.

• Air Traffic Control Restrictions: Limited airport capacity and routing issues can lead to delays, especially during peak travel times.

• Staff Strikes: Airline or airport staff strikes may cause significant disruptions to flights.

Can You Claim Compensation for a Delayed Flight at Sumburgh Airport?

If your flight from Sumburgh Airport was delayed for more than three hours due to an airline-related issue (not extraordinary circumstances like severe weather), you could be eligible for compensation under EU Regulation EC261.

The compensation amount depends on the flight distance:

• Up to 1,500 km – €250

• 1,500 km to 3,500 km – €400

• Over 3,500 km (EU to non-EU flights) – €600

This regulation applies even though the UK is no longer in the EU, as the UK adopted similar passenger rights under UK261 post-Brexit.

What to Do If Your Flight is Delayed at Sumburgh Airport

If you find yourself stuck at Sumburgh due to a long delay, follow these steps:

1. Confirm the Cause of the Delay

Ask the airline for the official reason for the delay. If the delay is due to technical faults, overbooking, or airline operational issues, you may have a valid claim.

2. Keep Records and Documents

• Flight ticket and booking confirmation

• Boarding pass

• Emails or messages from the airline about the delay

• Receipts for any extra expenses incurred (meals, accommodation)

3. Check If You Are Eligible for Compensation

Use our free flight delay checker to instantly determine if you can claim compensation.

4. Know Your Passenger Rights

For delays over two hours, airlines must provide:

• Food and drinks

• Hotel accommodation (if the delay extends overnight)

• Transport to and from the hotel

• Two free calls, emails, or faxes

If they don’t offer these, keep receipts and request reimbursement.

Alternatives If Your Flight is Severely Delayed or Canceled

While Sumburgh is the main airport in Shetland, Scatsta Airport (SCS), which primarily handles charter and offshore flights, could be an alternative for some travelers. If your flight is delayed significantly or canceled, check with your airline if they can rebook you on another flight from Scatsta.

Additionally, ferry services to Aberdeen might be an option if no alternative flights are available. NorthLink Ferries operate between Lerwick and Aberdeen, allowing stranded travelers to continue their journey.

How to Claim Compensation for a Flight Delay

1. Submit Your Claim Online

The easiest way to claim is through our platform. Enter your flight details, and we’ll assess your case instantly.

2. We Handle the Legal Process

If the airline refuses to pay, we escalate your claim and take legal action if necessary. You don’t have to deal with complicated legal procedures.

3. Get Your Money

Once approved, you’ll receive your compensation—up to €600 per passenger.

Recent Flight Delays at Sumburgh Airport

Here are some of the recent delays reported at Sumburgh:

• Loganair Flight LM150 to Aberdeen – 4-hour delay (technical issue)

• British Airways Flight BA2351 to London Heathrow – 3.5-hour delay (operational issue)

• Loganair Flight LM354 to Glasgow – Canceled (weather conditions)

If you were on one of these or similar flights, you may be entitled to compensation.

Common Questions About Flight Delays at Sumburgh

Is fog a valid reason for compensation?

No, weather-related delays like fog are considered extraordinary circumstances, so airlines are not required to pay compensation. However, if the delay was due to technical issues or airline mismanagement, you can claim.

How long do I have to file a claim?

In Scotland, you have five years from the date of the flight to file a claim for compensation under EC261.

What if the airline refuses my claim?

If your airline rejects your claim unfairly, we can challenge them legally on your behalf.

Don’t Miss Out on Compensation—Claim Now!

If your flight from Sumburgh Airport was delayed by three hours or more, don’t let the airline get away without paying what you’re owed.

Claim your compensation now and receive up to €600 per passenger!