As a resident of Leiden, you have rights to compensation and care in the event of flight delays, cancellations, or overbooking under European regulations. These apply to flights departing from the EU and provide additional protection for travelers from our region.
When do the rules apply?
The EU Regulation 261/2004 applies to:
- All flights departing from the EU, including Schiphol, which is popular among residents of Leiden
- Flights arriving in the EU operated by an EU airline
Compensation for delays
If you arrive more than 3 hours late due to a delay, you may be eligible for:
- Flights up to 1500 km: €250 compensation
- Flights from 1500 to 3500 km: €400
- Long-haul flights over 3500 km: €600
In Leiden, you can seek advice about your claim at the Legal Aid Office in Leiden.
Compensation for cancellations
In the event of a flight cancellation, you are entitled to compensation, unless:
- You were informed at least 14 days in advance
- There are extraordinary circumstances, such as bad weather
- A suitable alternative is offered with minimal delay
Care and assistance
During a long delay at the airport, as a passenger you are entitled to:
- Meals and refreshments proportional to the waiting time
- Opportunities for two phone calls or emails
- Hotel accommodation with transport, if the delay occurs at night
Overbooking
If you are denied boarding due to overbooking, you are entitled to compensation and can choose from:
- A full refund of your ticket
- An alternative flight to your destination
The airline must also assist you during the wait.
Submitting a claim
Start by filing a claim with the airline. If there is no response or it is rejected, contact the ILT (Inspectorate for Living Environment and Transport). For personal advice as a resident of Leiden, visit the Legal Aid Office in Leiden or involve the Leiden District Court in disputes. Local claim agencies can also assist with the process.
Veelgestelde vragen
Wat is mijn retourrecht?
Bij online aankopen heb je 14 dagen retourrecht zonder opgaaf van reden, tenzij de wettelijke uitzonderingen gelden.
Hoe lang geldt de wettelijke garantie?
Goederen moeten minimaal 2 jaar meewerken. Defecten die binnen 6 maanden ontstaan worden verondersteld al aanwezig te zijn.
Kan ik rente eisen over schulden?
Ja, je kunt wettelijke rente eisen (momenteel ongeveer 8% per jaar) over het openstaande bedrag.
Wat kan ik doen tegen oneerlijke handelspraktijken?
Je kunt klacht indienen bij de consumentenbond, de overheid of naar de rechter gaan.
Wat is een kredietovereenkomst?
Een kredietovereenkomst regelt hoe je geld leent, wat de rente is, en hoe je dit terugbetaalt.