Filing a Flight Compensation Claim in Colombia: Your Rights and Steps Under Aerocivil Rules

Colombian passengers facing flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding due to airline-attributable causes may qualify for compensation under the Civil Aviation Regulations (RAC 3 Numeral 3.10), overseen by the Unidad Administrativa Especial de Aeronáutica Civil (Aerocivil). This regulation addresses issues like delays exceeding certain durations, non-force majeure cancellations, and overbooking.

To claim, contact the airline first with evidence of the disruption. If unresolved, file with Aerocivil. Secondary sources, including the Ministerio de Justicia LegalApp page, confirm entitlements such as assistance for shorter delays (e.g., refreshments for 1-3 hours) and compensation for longer ones. Exceptions apply for weather, force majeure, or quick rebookings.

This covers domestic flights in Colombia. International flights may fall under treaties like the Montreal Convention, but Aerocivil rules apply where relevant.

What Colombian Rules Govern Flight Compensation Claims

The primary regulation is RAC 3 Numeral 3.10 from Aerocivil, which establishes passenger rights to compensation when airlines cause delays, cancellations, or denied boarding. According to Aerocivil's frequently asked questions, compensation applies only to airline-attributable issues.

Secondary sources like the Blog del Transporte e Infraestructura describe examples: for delays over 5 hours due to the airline, passengers may receive compensation equivalent to around 30% of the ticket or trajectory value, payable in cash, vouchers, or miles at the passenger's choice. Cancellations not due to extraordinary circumstances also trigger similar compensation, plus a full refund, unless rebooking occurs with minimal wait time.

These are illustrative from consistent secondary references; exact amounts depend on case specifics and airline policies.

What Does Not Apply to Colombian Flight Compensation

Colombian claims follow Aerocivil's RAC 3 Numeral 3.10, not rules from other jurisdictions. EU Regulation 261/2004 does not apply, nor do US Department of Transportation protections under 14 CFR Part 259 or the Fly Rights Act.

Credit card chargebacks or billing disputes operate separately from aviation compensation and follow card network timelines, not Aerocivil processes. Travel insurance claims depend on policy terms, distinct from statutory rights. Airline goodwill refunds are company policy, not a substitute for regulatory entitlements.

Steps to File Your Flight Compensation Claim

  1. Gather evidence: boarding pass, ticket, delay/cancellation notice, and proof of airline responsibility (e.g., communications).

  2. Contact the airline promptly via their customer service or reclamation form, requesting compensation under RAC 3 Numeral 3.10.

  3. If denied or unresolved, file a claim with Aerocivil through their online portal or offices.

  4. Escalate to the Superintendencia de Industria y Comercio (SIC) for consumer protection if Aerocivil does not resolve the issue.

No fixed deadlines appear in primary sources; act without delay to preserve options.

Key Limits and Exceptions in Colombian Flight Rules

Compensation requires the issue to stem from the airline, not force majeure, weather, or air traffic control. For delays under 5 hours, support like refreshments or communication access may apply instead of monetary compensation. Cancellations with rebooking and waits under 6 hours often limit entitlements to assistance only, without the 30% figure.

Resolución 1375 de 2015 imposes specific retraction conditions in air transport, potentially more restrictive than general consumer statutes. Always verify airline-attributability.

FAQ

What triggers compensation under RAC 3 Numeral 3.10?
Airline-caused delays, cancellations, or denied boarding, excluding extraordinary circumstances.

Do I get 30% of my ticket value for delays or cancellations?
Secondary sources cite this as an example for delays over 5 hours or qualifying cancellations, but it depends on specifics and passenger choice of form.

What if my flight issue was due to weather or force majeure?
No compensation under RAC 3 Numeral 3.10; only basic assistance may apply.

Where do I file a claim after contacting the airline?
With Aerocivil first, then SIC if needed.

Does this apply to international flights in Colombia?
RAC 3 Numeral 3.10 covers domestic; international may involve the Montreal Convention.

Can I use credit card disputes for flight compensation?
Credit card processes are separate from Aerocivil claims.

Next, review your documents and contact your airline or visit Aerocivil's site for forms.