EU261 Extraordinary Circumstances and Airline Care

An extraordinary circumstance may exempt fixed compensation if the test is met. It does not automatically remove meals, lodging or rerouting duties.

Why it matters

The rule's effective date and the airline's stated reason both matter.

Facts to verify

1. Flight date and jurisdiction.
2. Departure, arrival and any protected connection.
3. Actual operating carrier, notice, reason and replacement offer.

What to do next

Read the full rule guide, keep the original records, and ask the operating airline for a written decision. This page helps you frame the question; it doesn’t calculate an award.

Official sources

• Air passenger rights — European Union / Your Europe; checked 2026-10-31
• McDonagh C-12/11, Press Release 8/13 — Court of Justice; checked 2026-10-31