Madrid Barajas Flight Delay & Cancellation Compensation

How much compensation for a Madrid Barajas delay?

Compensation under EU261 depends on flight distance: €250 for flights up to 1,500 km (e.g. MAD–Barcelona, MAD–London), €400 for 1,500–3,500 km (e.g. MAD–Istanbul, MAD–Marrakech, MAD–Casablanca), and €600 for flights over 3,500 km (e.g. MAD–Dubai, MAD–New York, MAD–Mexico City). A 3+ hour arrival delay or cancellation within 14 days triggers compensation.

What is the deadline to claim for a Madrid Barajas delay?

Spain applies a 5-year limitation period for consumer contractual claims, including aviation passenger rights. This is one of the most generous in Europe alongside France. The Spanish aviation enforcement body is AESA (Agencia Estatal de Seguridad Aérea). For ADR, passengers can file complaints with AESA directly. Spain's 5-year window gives passengers significant time but evidence is always better gathered promptly.

Iberia rejected my EU261 claim — how do I escalate in Spain?

Escalate to AESA (Agencia Estatal de Seguridad Aérea), the Spanish aviation authority which also handles passenger rights complaints. Spain does not have a separate accredited ADR scheme specifically for aviation — AESA acts as both regulator and enforcement body. File the complaint online at aesa.gob.es with your rejection letter and supporting documentation. AESA decisions are binding.

Royal Air Maroc cancelled my Madrid–Casablanca flight — am I covered?

Yes. Royal Air Maroc is a Moroccan carrier — not EU-registered. EU261 applies to Royal Air Maroc on Madrid MAD departures (EU airport). Madrid–Casablanca is approximately 1,850 km — medium-haul, €400 per person compensation. The return Casablanca → Madrid on Royal Air Maroc is NOT covered (non-EU carrier, non-EU departure). Iberia, which operates the route as an EU carrier, covers both directions.

Does EU261 apply to all terminals at Madrid Barajas?

Yes. Madrid Barajas Airport (MAD) has 4 terminals (T1, T2, T3, T4/T4S) — all are within the same EU airport. EU261 applies to all flights departing from any terminal at Barajas. The terminal used does not affect your rights. Iberia and Iberia Express use T4/T4S; Ryanair uses T1; most other airlines use T1–T4.