Flight Delayed in Warsaw? Know Your Rights & Claim Compensation

Experiencing a Flight Delay in Warsaw? Here’s What You Need to Know

Flying through Warsaw and facing a delay? Whether you’re departing from Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW) or Warsaw Modlin Airport (WMI), delays can be incredibly frustrating. However, under EU Regulation EC 261/2004, you may be entitled to financial compensation of up to €600 per passenger if your flight meets certain criteria.

This guide will help you understand your rights, what steps to take, and how to maximize your compensation when dealing with a flight delay in Warsaw.

Understanding Your Rights Under EC 261 for Delayed Flights in Warsaw

If your flight from Warsaw Chopin Airport or Warsaw Modlin Airport is delayed, you may have the right to compensation. The EU Regulation EC 261/2004 states that passengers are eligible for compensation if:

• The flight is delayed by 3 hours or more at arrival.

• The departure or arrival airport is within the European Union, or the airline is an EU carrier.

• The delay was not caused by extraordinary circumstances like extreme weather, strikes, or security risks.

How Much Compensation Can You Get?

The amount of compensation you can claim depends on the flight distance:

• Up to 1,500 km → €250

• 1,500 – 3,500 km → €400

• More than 3,500 km → €600

Even if the airline offers you food, drinks, or vouchers during the delay, this does not replace your right to financial compensation.

What to Do If Your Flight Is Delayed in Warsaw?

If you’re stuck at Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW) or Warsaw Modlin Airport (WMI) due to a delay, follow these steps:

1. Get Confirmation from the Airline

Ask the airline for an official reason for the delay. Having written confirmation will help strengthen your claim later.

2. Keep All Travel Documents

Hold onto your boarding pass, booking confirmation, and any receipts for expenses caused by the delay (e.g., food, accommodation, transport).

3. Ask for Assistance at the Airport

If your delay exceeds 2 hours, the airline must provide:
✔ Free meals and refreshments
✔ Two free phone calls or emails
✔ Accommodation if the delay extends overnight
✔ Transport between the airport and hotel (if applicable)

4. Do Not Accept Vouchers Instead of Compensation

Some airlines may offer meal vouchers or discounts for future flights instead of cash compensation. You do not have to accept this! You are legally entitled to direct monetary compensation.

5. Claim Your Compensation

Use a professional claims service like Trouble Flight to handle the process efficiently and ensure you receive your money without unnecessary hassle.

Which Warsaw Airport Are You Departing From?

Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW) – Poland’s Largest International Hub

Located just 10 km from the city center, Chopin Airport is the main international airport in Poland. It serves major airlines like LOT Polish Airlines, Ryanair, Lufthansa, and Wizz Air.

If your flight is delayed at Chopin Airport, you can:

• Check for alternative flights with other airlines departing from the same airport.

• If your airline offers rebooking, ensure it meets your schedule and compensation rights.

Warsaw Modlin Airport (WMI) – Low-Cost Carrier Hub

Located 35 km from Warsaw, Modlin Airport mainly serves Ryanair and other low-cost carriers. If your flight from Modlin is delayed, you might consider:

• Checking flights from Chopin Airport, which has a wider range of airlines.

• Taking a ModlinBus or Koleje Mazowieckie (KM) train to Chopin Airport in about 45 minutes.

If your airline refuses to rebook you on another flight, you still have the right to claim compensation!

Common Airlines Operating from Warsaw & Compensation Policies

Some airlines may try to avoid paying compensation, but under EC 261, they are legally required to compensate passengers for delays over 3 hours.

Airlines Commonly Flying from Warsaw:

If your airline is unresponsive, Trouble Flight can handle the claim process for you.

How Long Do You Have to Claim Compensation for a Delayed Flight in Warsaw?

The time limit to claim compensation varies by country:

• Poland → 1 year

• Germany → 3 years

• France → 5 years

• UK → 6 years

Even if your flight was delayed months ago, you might still be eligible for compensation!

Alternative Travel Options If Your Flight Is Delayed in Warsaw

If you’re facing a long delay and need to explore alternatives, consider:

Taking a Train Instead of a Flight

Warsaw has direct train connections to major European cities:

• Berlin (5.5 hours)

• Vienna (7 hours)

• Prague (8 hours)

If your delay is significant, taking a train might get you to your destination faster!

Rebooking with Another Airline

If you are flying with a low-cost airline and your flight is heavily delayed, check for alternative flights from Chopin Airport with traditional carriers like LOT or Lufthansa. Sometimes, buying a new ticket can be faster than waiting for a delayed flight!

Claim Your Compensation for a Flight Delay in Warsaw Now!

If your flight from Warsaw was delayed for 3 hours or more, don’t let the airline keep your money. Under EC 261, you are entitled to up to €600 in compensation.

Why Use Trouble Flight?

✅ No Upfront Fees – We only get paid if you do.
✅ Faster Processing – We handle all the legal work.
✅ Higher Success Rate – Airlines take us seriously.

Click below to check your eligibility and start your claim today!