What a flight!

France

Flight compensation in France

France combines a heavy claim volume with frequent air traffic control strikes — which makes the reason the airline gives unusually important here.

Which flights are covered

Departures from any French airport, including Corsica and the overseas departments, and arrivals into France on an EU carrier. Air France, Transavia, easyJet and Ryanair carry most of the traffic.

Strikes: read the reason carefully

A national air traffic control strike is generally outside the airline's control, so no compensation is due — but the airline must still show it tried to reroute you. A strike by the airline's own staff is a different matter and does not excuse payment.

Escalating

The DGAC handles passenger complaints for flights departing France. The Médiateur Tourisme et Voyage offers free mediation for participating airlines. The claim window is five years.

Quick answer

France combines a heavy claim volume with frequent air traffic control strikes — which makes the reason the airline gives unusually important here.

Country
France
Main rule
EU261
Compensation
€250–€600 per passenger
Escalation body
DGAC
Typical claim deadline
Generally 5 years

Domande frequenti

There are strikes constantly. Does that mean I never get paid?
No. Ask whose strike it was. The airline's own staff striking does not block compensation.
How long do I have to claim in France?
Five years from the date of the flight.
Can I write to the airline in English?
Yes, though a French letter tends to get a faster reply from French carriers.

Primary sources

Official guidance and legislation used to review this page.