Table of contents
- What does this mean for your flight?
- Frequently asked questions about the duty of care
Duty of Care
Duty of care (right to refreshments), also known as the duty to provide assistance, is the airline’s obligation to look after you if your flight is significantly disrupted. This means free refreshments, hotel accommodation and means of communication whilst you wait. This obligation applies regardless of whether you are also entitled to financial compensation.
Meaning: Duty of care / duty to provide assistance
Relevant for: Flight delays, flight cancellations, denied boarding
Regulation: EU261
What does this mean for your flight?
The duty of care entitles you to practical assistance here and now, regardless of fault. If, for example, you experience a long delay, the airline must provide food and drink. If an overnight stay is required, they must also arrange hotel accommodation and transport. This is not the same as financial compensation, which depends on the cause and duration of the delay.