Lanzarote Airport

Lanzarote Airport, also known as Arrecife Airport, is located on the island of Lanzarote, one of the main islands in the Canary archipelago.

Like Tenerife, Fuerteventura, or Gran Canaria, it is a highly popular tourist destination. Lanzarote Airport is served by 35 airlines, covering 77 different destinations. All destinations from Lanzarote are within Europe or the United Kingdom, as are the airlines operating the flights.

Here's what this means for your rights.

The Canary Islands, a fully-fledged European territory

Dependent on Spain, the Canary Islands have the status of an autonomous community. Despite this status, they are indeed considered part of the European Union.

In other words, under EU law, Lanzarote Airport is indeed a European airport. It is therefore subject to Regulation (EC) No 261/2004.

Which flights are covered by Regulation (EC) No 261/2004?

Implemented in 2004, Regulation (EC) No 261/2004 applies to all European Union member states. At the time, the United Kingdom was part of it, so it was also covered. Since Brexit, it no longer falls under this law.

Furthermore, although not part of the European Union, Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland are also subject to a number of European laws, including this one.

However, not all flights fall under this regulation. It applies to:

all flights departing from the European Community area (including Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland), regardless of the airline's origin.
flights to the same European Community area, if the airline is based there.

Airlines under Swiss (EasyJet Switzerland, Edelweiss Air) or Norwegian (Norwegian Air Shuttle) flags are also covered.

What about British airlines?

Since Brexit, Regulation (EC) No 261/2004 no longer directly applies to the United Kingdom. However, UK national law provides an equivalent regulation, UK261.

This regulation incorporates the main measures provided by Regulation (EC) No 261/2004. So if you fly with British Airways or EasyJet, you will have the same rights.

What are your rights at Lanzarote Airport ?

If you arrive on time for boarding, with a boarding pass and valid documents, the airline must take care of you until your arrival.

If they cannot take you at the scheduled time, they must offer you a replacement flight. They must also cover any expenses you incur (meals, accommodation, etc.).

In the event of cancellation, overbooking or a delay of more than 5 hours, you can request a refund. However, be aware: if you accept it, you waive any further assistance and any claims thereafter.

Finally, in the event of a delay, cancellation, or overbooking, you are also entitled to a fixed compensation. Depending on the circumstances, the amount ranges from €125 to €600. This compensation is subject to conditions and you must apply for it.

planes at a standstill and control tower at lanzarote airport

Was your flight disrupted at Lanzarote Airport? Find out if you are entitled to compensation

If you experienced a flight disruption at Lanzarote Airport, you are subject to European Community law.

If you experienced a delay, cancellation, or were denied boarding due to overbooking, you may be entitled to compensation.

Delayed, a company specialising in passenger compensation, can help you make your claim.