Most Wizz Air journeys are completed on time, but every so often travelers face unexpected setbacks such as long delays, last-minute cancellations, or even denied boarding. Many passengers are unaware that they may be eligible for up to €600 in compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004 (EU261), a law designed to safeguard passengers flying throughout Europe.
This article explains how EU261 works, when you can request compensation, and what steps to take if your Wizz Air flight was disrupted.
EU261: Europe’s Passenger Protection Law
EU261 was introduced to give air travelers stronger rights when flights don’t go according to plan. It applies in two main situations:
- Any flight departing from an EU airport, regardless of which airline operates it.
- Flights arriving at an EU airport operated by EU-based carriers, such as Wizz Air.
This means that even if you purchased a low-cost ticket, you still benefit from the same protections as any other passenger if your journey is disrupted.
Compensation for Wizz Air Flight Delays
You may be entitled to Wizz Air flight delay compensation if:
- Your flight reaches its destination at least three hours later than scheduled.
- The cause of the delay was within Wizz Air’s control — for example, crew shortages, scheduling mistakes, or technical problems.
- You checked in on time and held a valid booking.
Compensation amounts depend on flight distance:
- €250 for flights under 1,500 km
- €400 for flights between 1,500 and 3,500 km
- €600 for flights over 3,500 km
If your journey meets these conditions, you can submit a claim for wizz air delayed flight compensation and recover part of the inconvenience caused by the lost time.
Wizz Air Flight Cancellation Rights
Compensation may also apply if your flight was cancelled. You could be eligible if:
- You were informed of the cancellation less than 14 days before departure.
- Wizz Air did not provide a suitable replacement flight.
- The cancellation was not caused by extraordinary events beyond the airline’s control (such as severe weather or political unrest).
The payout amounts mirror those for delays, ranging from €250 to €600 depending on distance.
Assistance During Long Delays
Beyond financial compensation, EU261 guarantees that passengers must receive care and assistance during significant delays. Wizz Air is required to provide:
- Complimentary meals and refreshments.
- Two free communications (calls, emails, or messages).
- Hotel accommodation if an overnight stay is necessary.
- Transport between the airport and the hotel.
These benefits apply regardless of whether you later submit a claim for financial compensation.
Denied Boarding and Overbooked Flights
Under EU261, you are entitled to reimbursement if Wizz Air oversells a flight and you are refused boarding against your will. Passengers may be eligible for a refund or rerouting in these situations, as well as up to €600.
How to Claim Wizz Air Compensation
Despite the fact that travellers can submit claims directly to Wizz Air, many people find the procedure to be cumbersome, slow, and frustrating. Working with expert claim agencies like FlyHelp, which manage the documentation, negotiations, and legal follow-ups on your behalf, is an additional option.
It’s easy to begin a claim: fill out an online form with your flight information, and professionals will determine whether you qualify for Wizz Air flight delay compensation, cancellation compensation, or denied boarding compensation.
While disruptions to flights can be stressful, EU261 makes sure Wizz Air passengers are protected. You might be eligible for assistance and compensation regardless of whether there was a delay, cancellation, or overbooking.
Don’t lose out on what you’re entitled to; find out if Wizz Air will pay you for your interrupted flight and assert your rights.