Paris Airport Delays: What You Need To Know

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is notorious for its delays and cancellations, with travellers describing it as a nightmare. While delays are frustrating for passengers, EU Regulation EC 261 means travellers are protected by certain rights, including the possibility of compensation. If your flight is delayed by 3 or more hours, you may be able to claim up to $700 (€600) in compensation, unless the delay is caused by extraordinary circumstances such as unsafe weather conditions or an air traffic control issue.

Passenger rights and compensation

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) falls within the zone covered by EC 261, meaning passengers departing from the airport may be entitled to up to €600 in compensation when flights are delayed, cancelled, or overbooked. This also applies to some flights arriving at CDG from inside the EU and from outside the EU. Passengers usually have up to three years to claim their compensation.

Passengers whose flights are delayed by two hours or more are entitled to meals and refreshments, as well as two free telephone calls, emails, or faxes. If the delay is more than five hours, passengers can cancel their flight and ask for a refund or request alternative transportation. If the delay means that passengers have to stay overnight, the airline may offer accommodation, including transportation to and from the airport.

In the event of a flight cancellation, passengers are entitled to choose between reimbursement, rerouting, or a return flight. If passengers are informed of the cancellation less than two weeks before the scheduled departure date, they are entitled to compensation.

Passengers who are denied boarding due to overbooking are entitled to choose between reimbursement, rerouting, or rebooking at a later stage. They are also entitled to assistance from the airline.

If passengers miss a connecting flight and arrive at their final destination with a delay of more than three hours, they are entitled to compensation. This is calculated according to the length of the delay and the distance to the final destination.

In the case of lost, damaged, or delayed luggage, the airline is liable, and passengers are entitled to compensation of up to approximately €1,300.

It is important to note that there are exceptions to these rules. For example, if the delay or cancellation is due to extraordinary circumstances beyond the control of the airline, such as dangerous weather conditions or air traffic control strikes, compensation may not be owed.

Causes of delays

Delays at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport are often caused by a variety of factors, some of which are outside the control of the airport and airlines. One of the most common causes of delays at any airport is unsafe weather conditions, which can cause flights to be delayed or even cancelled. Paris is prone to unpredictable weather, which can cause disruptions to flight schedules.

Another major cause of delays is air traffic control issues. These can include staff shortages, equipment failures, or other unforeseen problems that impact the safe and efficient management of air traffic. In such cases, delays may be implemented to ensure the safe handling of flights.

Issues with the airport's infrastructure and design have also been cited as a cause for delays. Passengers have complained about the airport's confusing layout, with connecting flights requiring time-consuming travel between terminals. This, coupled with long security checks and a lack of open counters to process passengers, can result in missed flights and delays.

Additionally, strikes or other industrial actions by airport staff or related workers can also impact flight schedules. While these are less common, they can have a significant impact on operations, causing delays or cancellations.

Finally, extraordinary circumstances such as an air traffic control strike, unsafe flying conditions, or other unforeseen events outside the control of the airline can also contribute to delays and cancellations at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport.

What to do in the event of a delay

Delays or cancellations can be very frustrating when travelling through Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG). Here is a list of steps you can take to navigate this stressful situation:

• Stay Informed: Collect proof of the delay or cancellation by taking screenshots or photos of emails from the airline, flight status updates, and the departure board at the airport. This information will be crucial when seeking compensation or refunds.
• Keep Your Travel Documents: Ensure you securely store all your travel documents, including boarding passes, tickets, and passports. You may need these documents to rebook flights or process compensation claims.
• Communicate with Your Airline: Contact your airline to understand the reason for the delay. Ask about their policies regarding delayed flights, meals, and refreshments. Remember to pay attention to what the airline offers and do not sign anything that might waive your right to compensation.
• Keep Receipts: If the delay causes you to incur additional expenses, such as meals, accommodation, or transportation, be sure to keep all the receipts. These receipts can be crucial when seeking reimbursement from your airline or travel insurance provider.
• Understand Your Rights: If you are delayed at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, you may be protected by EU Regulation No. 261/2004 (EC 261). This regulation specifies the care and compensation that airlines must provide to passengers in the event of delays, cancellations, or overbooking. You may be entitled to compensation of up to $700 (€600) per person if your flight is delayed by 3 or more hours and the delay was the airline's responsibility.
• Explore Alternative Arrangements: Depending on the length of the delay, you may need to make alternative travel arrangements. Consider whether it is more convenient to wait for the next available flight with your original airline or book a ticket with another carrier. If you choose to book with another airline, be sure to keep all receipts and documentation for potential reimbursement.

Remember to stay calm and patient during delays, and follow the instructions provided by airport staff and your airline.

Airport layout and navigation

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is a large and complex airport, and efficient navigation can be challenging. The airport consists of multiple terminals, with Terminal 2 being a common departure point for many international flights. Within Terminal 2, there are further subdivisions, such as 2E and 2D, which are not easily accessible from each other. For instance, to get from 2E to 2D, passengers may need to take a bus that only goes in one direction, adding to the travel time and complexity.

Security checks and passport control can also add to the overall navigation time within the airport. It is not uncommon to encounter multiple security checks, which can be time-consuming, especially if you are transferring between terminals. It is advisable to factor in ample time for these checks when navigating CDG.

The layout of CDG can be confusing, with some passengers describing it as a "poorly designed labyrinth". The distance between terminals can be significant, and it may take upwards of 40 minutes to transfer between them. This is an important consideration, especially if you have a connecting flight or a tight schedule.

To efficiently navigate CDG, it is essential to plan ahead. Allow for sufficient time between flights or when departing the airport to reach your intended destination. Keep yourself updated on the location of your departure gate and any changes that may occur. Having a clear understanding of the airport layout and the time required to move between terminals can help ensure a smoother travel experience.

Additionally, staying informed about any delays or disruptions at the airport is crucial. Real-time flight tracking apps and websites can provide valuable information about departure and arrival times, helping you make more informed decisions about your navigation through the airport.

Alternative airports in Paris

Paris is served by four airports: Charles de Gaulle, Orly, Beauvais-Tillé, and Châlons Vatry. Charles de Gaulle is the largest and busiest, handling most long-haul international flights. It is located 16 miles (a 30-minute drive) northeast of central Paris.

Orly is a smaller airport located just 8 miles (an 18-minute drive) south of Paris. It offers a more relaxed alternative to Charles de Gaulle, with a mix of domestic and international flights.

Beauvais-Tillé is a budget airport located 53 miles (an 80-minute drive) north of Paris. It is served mostly by budget airlines and is ideal for cost-conscious travellers.

Châlons Vatry is a small, one-terminal airport located a two-and-a-half-hour drive outside of Paris. It serves mostly budget and seasonal routes and has very few amenities.

In addition to these four airports, Paris Le Bourget is located 6.5 miles northeast of the city centre and is used primarily for business aviation and private jets.

When choosing which airport to fly into, consider your budget, your origin or destination, and your preferences for amenities and travel time to the city centre.

Frequently asked questions