In my last post, I described the unexpected but fun and interesting day we spent in Fiumicino when our return flight to the U.S. was cancelled.
Fiumicino©Blogginginitaly.com
Fiumicino©Blogginginitaly.com
When I spoke to American Airlines about rescheduling our return, I was told to keep the expense receipts related to the delay and apply for compensation after our return.
And so I did. On their website is a place to enter compliments or complaints, and a pull down menu offers information for cancelled or delayed flights. I sent an email asking where to submit my expenses and the response was quite a surprise:
As you may know, (I didn’t!) European Union Regulation (EC) No. 261/2004 of the European Parliament and Council has established common rules on compensation and assistance to passengers in the event of cancellations or long delays of flights. Under this regulation, passengers are entitled to established levels of compensation, depending on the length of delay.
Our records indicate flight 111 was canceled which resulted in arrival 4+ hours later than planned. Therefore, we offer you one of the following forms of compensation.
A. Monetary payment of 600EUR – or –
B. Transportation voucher in the amount of 800USD which may be used to purchase travel on American Airlines for you, a friend, or relative.
Len and I chose the €600, completed a few forms, and each received a check converted to U.S. currency. In addition, a small paragraph at the bottom of the letter told me they would be happy to review our unexpected expenses in Rome. Only the bottle of wine was not covered.
So now you know the rest of the story – a good thing to tuck away just in case you have a delay!
And a very Happy Birthday to my soul mate Len, may our lives together continue to be filled with adventure and unexpected surprises!
Cortona Parterre March ’17, ©Blogginginitaly.com
Ciao,
Judy
For more specifics related to the Regulation, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flight_Compensation_Regulation_261/2004
Blogging In Italy 
Markedly favorable review for AA
Glad to hear customer service is alive
And well
Keep traveling and keep
Blogging
Happy Birthday to the Buckaroo!
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Yes, they treated us well!
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You saved the best for last – fantastic!
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Thanks, it was great fun, especially free fun!
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Thanks for sharing. My family and I once spent the entire day in the Orlando Airport after our flight going back to Michigan from a cruise was delayed 10 hours. That day, we created many wonderful memories. It’s great when we can turn a delay into a great day. p.s. Happy Birthday Len — Have a great day.
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Lisa, so glad you had a memorable delay also! And Len sends greetings and thanks.
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Wonderful story Judy. Happy Birthday to Len!
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Thanks Sandy!
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Hi Judy:
My cousin John Volpe connected me with your Blog which I find not only informative but delightful. It warms my soul to see the warmth and love between you, your husband and Italia.
Thank you for sharing. Be Blessed, Joy (Gioia)
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Thanks so much and welcome! Feel free to leave comments. Just had lunch w Giovanni yesterday. Ciao, Judy
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