An EasyJet passenger has launched a furious attack on the budget airline after being denied compensation when a technical fault forced her flight cancellation.
Chloe Fenton, who was travelling to Amsterdam for a holiday, saw her plans thrown into chaos when her flight from Liverpool John Lennon Airport was abruptly cancelled due to aircraft technical issues.
'They're Trying to Weasel Out of Paying'
'It's an absolute disgrace,' Chloe told travel reporters. 'EasyJet are clearly trying to weasel out of paying what they legally owe.'
Despite EU regulation EC261 typically requiring airlines to pay up to £220 in compensation for cancellations within their control, EasyJet has rejected Chloe's claim, leaving her out of pocket and frustrated.
The Amsterdam Dream Turned Nightmare
Chloe's much-anticipated city break to Amsterdam turned into a travel nightmare when she received the cancellation notification just hours before departure.
'We were all packed and ready to go for our mini-break,' she explained. 'To have it cancelled last minute and then be told we won't get any compensation is just unacceptable.'
What Are Your Passenger Rights?
Under European air passenger rights, travellers may be entitled to compensation when:
- Flights are cancelled less than 14 days before departure
- The cancellation is within the airline's control
- Technical faults not caused by extraordinary circumstances occur
- Passengers are notified of cancellation at short notice
However, airlines frequently dispute claims, arguing that technical issues qualify as 'extraordinary circumstances' - a loophole that leaves many passengers empty-handed.
EasyJet's Stance on Technical Faults
EasyJet maintains that certain technical problems fall outside their control, therefore exempting them from compensation payments under EU regulations.
'Safety is our highest priority,' an airline spokesperson stated. 'When technical issues arise that require cancellation, we always prioritise passenger safety over schedule.'
But passenger rights advocates argue that routine maintenance and technical problems should not be classified as extraordinary circumstances, putting them at odds with airline policies.
Fight for Your Rights
Chloe's experience serves as a warning to UK travellers about the importance of understanding passenger rights and being prepared to challenge airline decisions.
'Don't take no for an answer,' she advises other passengers. 'If your flight is cancelled and it's their fault, you have rights. Keep fighting for what you're owed.'
The case highlights ongoing tensions between budget airlines and passengers over compensation claims, with many travellers feeling short-changed when technical issues disrupt their plans.
