Paris CDG Flight Delay & Cancellation Compensation

How much compensation for a Paris CDG delay?

Compensation under EU261 depends on flight distance: €250 for flights up to 1,500 km (e.g. CDG–London, CDG–Amsterdam), €400 for 1,500–3,500 km (e.g. CDG–Tunis, CDG–Istanbul, CDG–Cairo), and €600 for flights over 3,500 km (e.g. CDG–Dubai, CDG–New York, CDG–Montreal). A 3+ hour arrival delay or cancellation with less than 14 days' notice triggers the right to claim.

Does EU261 apply to Emirates at Paris CDG?

Yes. EU261 applies to all airlines departing from EU airports, including Emirates. An Emirates flight from Paris CDG delayed 3+ hours entitles each passenger to €600 (Paris–Dubai is ~5,200 km, long-haul tier). The return Dubai → Paris on Emirates is not covered (non-EU carrier, non-EU departure). Emirates frequently disputes claims — escalation to France's DGAC or Médiateur du Tourisme is often necessary.

What is the deadline to claim for a Paris CDG delay?

France has a 5-year limitation period for civil claims. This is one of the most generous in Europe. However, submitting claims earlier is always better as evidence (boarding passes, booking records) is more readily available. The French enforcement body is DGAC (Direction Générale de l'Aviation Civile) and the ADR scheme is Médiateur du Tourisme et du Voyage.

Air France rejected my EU261 claim — how do I escalate in France?

Escalate to Médiateur du Tourisme et du Voyage, the French ADR body accredited for aviation claims. Air France participates in this scheme. Alternatively, file a complaint with DGAC (the French aviation authority). Both are free for passengers. Médiateur decisions are non-binding but Air France generally complies. If Médiateur fails, pursue through French courts (tribunal judiciaire). France's 5-year window gives ample time.

I was delayed at CDG on a connecting flight — am I entitled to compensation?

It depends on whether your entire journey was booked under a single reservation. If you booked Paris–Dubai–Singapore in one booking and missed your Dubai connection due to a Paris delay, EU261 applies to the entire journey under the single-booking rule. The operating carrier of the first leg (the Paris departure) is responsible for compensation based on the final destination distance. If booked separately, each segment is assessed independently.