The direct answer
If EU passenger-rights rules apply, the airline must offer assistance after qualifying delays and a choice between rerouting and reimbursement after cancellation. Fixed compensation can apply unless an exclusion, such as extraordinary circumstances, is established. [1]
What to ask for at the airport
Contact the operating airline. Ask for written information about the disruption and your options. Keep boarding passes, booking details, notices and reasonable receipts. Care can include meals, communications and accommodation depending on the waiting time and route distance. [1]
Refund or rerouting
For a cancellation, choose carefully between reimbursement and rerouting. Accepting a refund may end the airline’s duty to carry you on that booking. If arranging alternatives yourself, first give the airline a reasonable chance to meet its obligation and keep evidence. [2]
Compensation is a separate question
Eligibility depends on the route, timing, arrival delay and cause. The operating airline must show extraordinary circumstances if relying on that defence, and it must still take reasonable measures. Claim from the airline first, then use the designated enforcement route. [3]
What to do now
- Ask the operating airline for written options.
- Keep notices, receipts and arrival-time evidence.
- Choose refund or rerouting deliberately.
- Escalate through the correct enforcement body if unresolved.
Primary sources
Claims and service details were checked against these official sources on 2026-07-11. Follow the source for the latest operational detail.
- European Commission: Air passenger rights Accessed 2026-07-11
- Irish Aviation Authority: Air passenger rights Accessed 2026-07-11
- EUR-Lex: Regulation (EC) No 261/2004 Accessed 2026-07-11
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Editorial note
Publisher: Around.ie Editorial. This page provides general information, not individual professional advice. Material changes trigger an earlier review. Corrections create a new reviewed version.