Your right to compensation under EU 261/2004

EU 261/2004 is the cornerstone law protecting air passengers. It sets the rules for compensation and assistance when you’re hit by a delay, a cancelled flight or denied boarding. The payout depends on factors like flight distance and the length of the delay.

EU 261/2004 binds every airline operating from EU airports, as well as flights from third countries into the EU when they’re operated by European carriers.


Air Serbia compensation for a delayed flight

If you flew with Air Serbia and your delayed flight was more than three hours late, you’re entitled to compensation. That right comes straight from EU 261/2004. Worth noting: it isn’t automatic — the delay has to be down to the airline and not the result of extraordinary circumstances.


Air Serbia compensation for a cancelled flight

If Air Serbia cancels your flight without telling you at least 14 days before departure, you’re entitled to compensation. The amount depends on the flight distance and how quickly you were offered a rerouting.


How much compensation am I entitled to?

Flight distanceCompensation per passenger
Up to 1,500 km (e.g. Belgrade – Vienna)€250
1,500–3,500 km (e.g. Belgrade – Madrid)€400
Over 3,500 km (e.g. Belgrade – New York)€600

These are the maximum amounts; the actual payout can be lower depending on the circumstances.


When you’re entitled to compensation

You’re entitled when an Air Serbia flight is delayed by more than three hours, cancelled with no advance notice, or hit by overbooking. There are situations where you’re not entitled:

  1. Extraordinary circumstances like natural disasters or terrorist threats that can’t be foreseen or controlled.
  2. You were told about the cancellation at least 14 days before departure, or you were offered a rerouting with minimal delay.
  3. The delay was caused by factors outside the airline’s control (bad weather, a strike by airport staff).

How to claim compensation from Air Serbia

You have two main options. The first: contact Air Serbia directly. That process can involve gathering documents, filling in forms, and waiting a long time for a reply.

The second, and often easier route: check your claim with Refundio. Our team takes every step from there and you get on with your life.


What if the airline rejects the claim?

If Air Serbia rejects your claim, don’t give up. Fill in our online form and we take it from there. We talk to the airline and, if it comes to it, defend your claim in court.