Brits among thousands of Málaga passengers who could claim hundreds of euros after summer flight delays

Thousands of Málaga passengers may be eligible for reimbursement of hundreds of euros after experiencing flight delays during the summer, according to AirHelp. The company estimates 42,200 passengers were affected by delays or cancellations between July and September. However, not all delays qualify for compensation. Only those with a three-hour or more delay can claim, with the airline responsible for proving extraordinary circumstances such as severe weather or strikes.

Payouts vary based on the flight's length, with €250 for journeys under 1,500 kilometres, €400 for 1,500 to 3,500 kilometres, and €600 for longer flights. Most flights from Málaga to the UK or northern Europe fall within the €400 range. Families traveling together on a €400 route could be owed up to €1,600. Airlines are not obligated to pay if the delay was due to extraordinary circumstances, which must be proven by the airline.

Passengers can still receive meals, drinks, and a hotel if they are stranded overnight. The European Parliament is set to implement an overhaul of air passenger rights in 2027, but compensation for this summer's delays will still be based on current rules. To file a claim, passengers should start with their airline, which has five years to respond, followed by a one-month deadline.

If unsatisfied, passengers can file a complaint with AESA within a year of their initial claim, with a 90-day decision timeframe. Claims companies like AirHelp can handle the paperwork, but passengers should verify any associated fees before signing up.