Buying a plane ticket doesn’t just mean securing a seat on a flight. It also means having specific rights, especially when something goes wrong, such as delays, cancellations or problems with luggage. Many passengers are unaware of these rules, but knowing them can save time, money and stress during your trip.
Who guarantees passenger rights
According to DECO PROteste, a website specializing in consumer rights, European Union legislation protects all passengers traveling from community airports. It also applies to flights from outside the EEA to European airports, as long as they are operated by European airlines.
In Portugal, it is up to the National Civil Aviation Authority to ensure that these rules are complied with. Non-European companies that provide services within the community must also comply with these standards.
How to act in case of problems
If your flight is canceled or significantly delayed, the first step is to contact the airline. If it is a problem related to assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, you must go to the airport.
If you do not receive a satisfactory response, you can appeal to the national authority of the country where the situation occurred. In holiday packages, organizers are also obliged to provide complete information about the contracted services, comply with the terms of the contract and protect passengers in the event of insolvency.
Compensation and assistance
Among the rights you can claim is financial compensation in the event of cancellation or prolonged delay. There is also an obligation to provide immediate assistance, including meals, accommodation and transportation, when necessary.
DECO PROteste offers the Reclamar platform, which allows you to submit complaints free of charge, without impeding other resources.
Transparency in ticket prices
Another important right is clarity in the ticket price. All foreseeable charges such as taxes, fees and surcharges must be included in the final price. Optional supplements must be clearly indicated from the beginning of the booking process.
The law also prohibits charging different amounts based on the nationality of the buyer or the place of purchase. Some companies allow you to guarantee the ticket price for a limited period by paying a pre-booking fee. In the case of TAP, this option is known as Time to Think.
Being informed avoids surprises
Knowing what your rights are allows you to react quickly and effectively at the airport. From complaining to the airline or airport to appealing to the national authority, knowing these rules avoids embarrassment and ensures that any travel interruption is managed in accordance with European and national legislation, according to .
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