Air passenger rights
Air passengers within the European Union and Switzerland have strong and extensive rights, ensuring they are treated fairly if problems occur on their journeys. New EU legislation, which entered into force in Switzerland 1st December 2006, increases the level of compensation airlines must pay to passengers denied boarding, and introduces new rights to compensation and assistance in the event of cancelled flights and long delays, as well as extending coverage to passengers on charter and domestic flights.
Note: English is not one of Switzerland's official languages. Please consult the pages in French or German.
Damaged, lost or late baggage
The carrier is liable for damage to baggage occurring in the event of destruction, loss or accident. This right applies world-wide if your flight is insured by a Swiss or EU company.
Refused boarding, cancellation and major delay
If you are refused boarding, or if your flight is cancelled or late, the airline operating the flight must offer you monetary compensation and provide you with assistance.
Futher information: FOCA
Transparency in the display of air ticket prices
Advertising for travel offers must show the total price payable, i.e. the price including fuel surcharges, airport taxes, security levies and other amounts due.
Injury or death resulting from an aircraft accident
The carrier is liable for damages arising in the event of the death of or injury to a passenger resulting from an accident occurring on board the aircraft or during boarding or de-planing operations.
Package tours
You can claim compensation from the travel organiser or agency that sold you a package tour if the services agreed under the contract are not provided. This right applies regardless of your destination if the contract was made in the EU or Switzerland.