What delay coverage typically includes
Delay coverage activates compensation for additional expenses when a flight (or connection) is delayed above the product's minimum threshold (usually 4-6 hours). Covered expenses include meals, transport, forced hotel if applicable, and — in some products — ticket reissuance if not assumed by airline. It is compatible with airline compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004.
Points users typically assess
- Minimum hours required: whether the threshold is 3, 4, 6 h — varies by product and affects eligibility.
- Item caps: meals max X €, hotel max Y €/night, transport max Z €.
- Evidence accepted: whether the airline's delay certificate is sufficient or additional documentation is requested.
- Coordination with EU 261/2004: whether IATI deducts what airline already pays or they are independent coverages.
- Reimbursement speed: days from documentation to payment.
Common situations covered
The most frequent reviews arise in: weather delays (snow in Europe, monsoon in Asia), technical failure at connection airport, controller strikes, overbooking forcing later flight. Missed connection due to prior flight delay (same PNR) is one of the most common cases.
How to strengthen your review if you share one
If you have activated delay coverage, provide: exact delay hours, delay certificate obtained (yes/no and from which airline), expense documentation, whether airline compensation discount was applied, resolution deadline and whether there was dispute about caps.