Berlin Airport Halts Flights Amid Winter Weather: Know Your Rights

Berlin’s airport has recently faced significant disruptions due to severe winter weather, particularly freezing rain and resultant flight suspensions. Passengers have been encouraged to verify their flight statuses before moving to the airport.

Winter Weather Impacts Flights Across Europe

On February 5, take-offs were halted at Berlin airport as freezing rain took its toll, causing flight delays and cancellations. This disruption follows significant issues faced last month at Amsterdam Schiphol airport, where over 700 flights were cancelled due to heavy snowfall and strong winds. European travel continues to be affected by persistent winter conditions.

Passenger Rights During Disruptions

Travellers in the UK and EU should be aware of their rights during flight cancellations or delays caused by inclement weather. EU regulations protect passengers whose flights are either operated by European airlines or those arriving from outside the EU.

• Compensation is typically available if flights arrive at their destination three hours late or more.
• Compensation amounts range from €250 to €600, depending on the flight distance.
• If a flight is cancelled, passengers can choose between a refund, rerouting, or returning to their departure point.

Duty of Care

Airlines hold a duty of care obligation during disruptions. Regardless of whether the weather is deemed an extraordinary circumstance, they must provide assistance such as meal vouchers and accommodation if necessary. Rory Boland, travel editor at Which? emphasizes that passengers should receive clear information regarding their rights during these situations.

Extraordinary Circumstances Explained

Not all weather conditions qualify as extraordinary circumstances. For instance, widespread snow affecting a winter operation may not exempt airlines from compensating passengers. An example of an extraordinary circumstance would be a severe snowstorm in a typically warm region. Airlines are not liable for compensation related to operational disruptions caused by prior weather conditions involving other flights.

Travel Insurance Coverage

Travel insurance can provide financial support during weather-related disruptions. Depending on individual policies, coverage may apply if a flight is delayed by over three hours. Missed connection policies may also assist with additional expenses incurred, including meals or lodging.

• Keep all relevant documentation for claims, including receipts and proof of delay from the airline.
• Cancellations due to extreme weather can also be eligible for compensation under specific conditions. A flight delay exceeding 12 hours may qualify, along with situations where accommodations become uninhabitable.

Insurance policies must be secured prior to adverse weather events to obtain full benefits. It’s vital to fully understand the terms of the policy, especially regarding coverage limits and requirements for claims related to weather disturbances.

As winter weather continues to affect travel, knowing your rights and the options available can reduce the stress of dealing with air travel disruptions.