The Hidden Fight for Your Rights

When airlines disrupt your travel plans with delays, cancellations, or denied boarding, they owe you compensation in many cases. But here’s the catch: most airlines won’t make it easy for you to claim what’s rightfully yours.

Instead, they rely on confusion, lack of awareness, and sneaky tactics to minimize payouts. Today, I’m uncovering the tricks airlines use to avoid paying compensation and showing you how to outsmart them every step of the way.

1. The “Extraordinary Circumstances” Excuse

One of the most common tricks airlines use is blaming the disruption on “extraordinary circumstances.” This vague term covers things like severe weather, security threats, or airport strikes.

The Trick:

Airlines stretch the definition to include situations that aren’t extraordinary, such as technical issues or crew shortages. They assume most passengers won’t challenge them.

How to Outsmart Them:

Always ask for written proof explaining why the flight was delayed or canceled. If the airline cites extraordinary circumstances, research whether the reason qualifies under the law. In many cases, technical issues or poor planning don’t count.

2. Ignoring Your Claim

Many passengers submit claims only to hear… nothing. Airlines sometimes ignore requests, hoping you’ll give up out of frustration.

The Trick:

By delaying responses or requiring multiple follow-ups, airlines wear down passengers’ patience.

How to Outsmart Them:

Persistence is key. Airlines are legally obligated to respond to claims within a reasonable timeframe. If they don’t, escalate the matter to a third-party claims service (like mine!) or a national enforcement body.

3. Offering Vouchers Instead of Cash

Imagine this: your flight is delayed, and the airline hands you a voucher for future travel. It seems like a nice gesture, right? Wrong.

The Trick:

Airlines often offer vouchers as compensation, hoping you’ll accept and waive your right to cash compensation. The value of these vouchers is usually far less than what you’re entitled to by law.

How to Outsmart Them:

Know your rights. You’re entitled to monetary compensation, not just a voucher. Politely decline the offer and insist on the cash amount outlined under passenger rights regulations.

4. Lowballing Compensation

Some airlines will offer partial compensation, banking on the fact that passengers don’t know how much they’re actually entitled to.

The Trick:

They might claim you’re only eligible for €150 instead of €400 for a delayed flight or apply an incorrect distance category.

How to Outsmart Them:

Research the law. For example, under EU Regulation 261/2004, compensation depends on flight distance and delay duration. If the airline offers less than you’re owed, challenge them with the correct figures.

5. Claiming It’s “Out of Their Control”

Airlines sometimes argue that another company, like air traffic control or ground handlers, caused the disruption and that they’re not responsible.

The Trick:

By shifting blame, airlines try to escape liability. However, passenger rights laws often hold airlines accountable for delays caused by third parties they work with.

How to Outsmart Them:

Request detailed documentation about the cause of the delay or cancellation. Airlines are still responsible if third-party issues (like crew shortages or maintenance delays) could have been avoided with better planning.

6. Delaying the Payment Process

Even when the airline agrees to pay, they might drag their feet. You could wait weeks or months to see the money in your account.

The Trick:

The longer they delay, the more likely you are to lose interest or give up on following up.

How to Outsmart Them:

Keep all communication records and send follow-up emails if the payment is delayed. If necessary, escalate the case to legal action or involve a claims service to enforce payment deadlines.

Final Thoughts: Knowledge Is Power

Airlines count on passengers not knowing their rights or giving up too easily. By understanding these tricks and staying persistent, you can turn the tables and claim what’s yours.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure, that’s where services like mine come in. At Payback, we specialize in navigating airline red tape, fighting for your compensation, and making sure you get paid — without the hassle.

Have you experienced one of these airline tricks? Share your story or contact us today to get the compensation you deserve.