Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is a charming city with a rich history, beautiful old-town streets, and vibrant culture. However, if your journey is disrupted due to a delayed flight at Vilnius International Airport (VNO), it can be frustrating and inconvenient. The good news? You might be entitled to compensation of up to €600 under EU Regulation EC 261/2004. Read on to find out how you can turn this setback into a financial reimbursement.
Flight delays can happen for various reasons, but some of the most common causes at Vilnius International Airport include:
Bad Weather Conditions – Fog, heavy snow, or storms can cause significant disruptions.
Technical Issues – Airlines sometimes experience mechanical failures or maintenance problems.
Air Traffic Control Restrictions – Vilnius is an important hub, and air congestion can lead to scheduling issues.
Strikes – Airport staff, airline crew, or air traffic control strikes can severely impact flight schedules.
Operational Challenges – Late arrivals of aircraft, staffing shortages, or fueling delays can all contribute.
If your flight from or to Vilnius International Airport has been delayed by more than 3 hours, you may be eligible for compensation under EU Regulation EC 261. This law applies if:
The delay was not due to extraordinary circumstances (such as extreme weather or political unrest).
Your flight departed from or arrived in an EU country, and the airline is EU-based.
The delay was caused by the airline’s own operational problems.
The amount you are entitled to depends on the flight distance:
Flight Distance | Delay Time | Compensation Amount |
---|---|---|
Up to 1,500 km | 3+ hours | €250 |
1,500 - 3,500 km | 3+ hours | €400 |
3,500+ km (outside EU) | 4+ hours | €600 |
This means that if you were traveling from Vilnius to London, Paris, or Frankfurt, you could claim up to €400. If you were flying further, such as to New York or Dubai, you might be eligible for €600.
If you’re facing a delay, follow these steps to protect your rights and strengthen your compensation claim:
Check the Delay Time – The crucial factor is how long you were delayed at arrival, not just departure.
Ask for a Written Confirmation – Request a statement from the airline detailing the reason for the delay.
Keep Your Boarding Pass & Ticket – These documents are essential for proving your case.
Claim Your Right to Assistance – For long delays (over 2 hours), airlines must provide food, drinks, and hotel stays if necessary.
Submit Your Compensation Claim – You can claim compensation directly, but airlines often make the process difficult. Trouble Flight can handle the entire process for you hassle-free.
If your flight is delayed for a few hours, why not explore Vilnius Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Visit Gediminas Tower for panoramic views, grab a coffee at Pilies Street, or take a walk along the Neris River. If you have an overnight delay, consider checking into one of the airport hotels or exploring the city’s renowned nightlife in Uzupis.
If your flight is severely delayed or even canceled, you might consider alternative routes. Kaunas International Airport (KUN) is just 100 km away and offers connections with different airlines. You can reach Kaunas Airport via:
Bus: Direct airport shuttle takes around 1.5 hours.
Train: A fast train from Vilnius to Kaunas, then a short taxi ride.
Car Rental: If you prefer flexibility, renting a car might be a convenient option.
This could save you time and help you find an earlier flight with another carrier.
We know that dealing with airline bureaucracy can be overwhelming. That's why Trouble Flight takes care of the entire claims process for you. Our team of experts will:
Analyze your case for free to see if you qualify for compensation.
Handle all legal proceedings and negotiations with the airline.
Ensure you receive your money as quickly as possible.
And the best part? You pay nothing unless we win your case!
If your flight from Vilnius International Airport was delayed, don’t let the airline get away with it. You could be entitled to €250, €400, or even €600 in compensation. It only takes a few minutes to check your eligibility and start your claim.