Flight Delayed in Graubünden? Here’s How to Get Compensation

Flight Delays in Graubünden – What You Need to Know

Graubünden is Switzerland’s largest and most mountainous canton, home to world-famous ski resorts like St. Moritz, Davos, and Arosa. With stunning landscapes and breathtaking alpine scenery, it’s a dream destination for travelers looking for adventure. However, getting in and out of this remote yet well-connected region isn’t always smooth.

Delays are common at regional airports serving Graubünden, particularly during winter months when snowfall and fog cause frequent disruptions. If you’ve experienced a flight delay departing from or arriving in Graubünden, you may be entitled to compensation under EU Regulation EC 261/2004.

Depending on the distance of your flight and the length of the delay, you could claim up to €600 per passenger. Here’s everything you need to know about your rights and how to secure the compensation you deserve.

Why Are Flights Delayed in Graubünden?

While Graubünden’s airports offer convenient access to the Alps, their location in the mountains can lead to unexpected disruptions. Some of the most common causes of flight delays in Graubünden include:

1. Harsh Weather Conditions

Graubünden is known for its extreme alpine weather, especially during the winter months. Heavy snowfall, icy runways, and fog frequently cause delays or cancellations at airports like Samedan Airport (SMV) near St. Moritz. Even in summer, strong winds can affect flight schedules.

2. Limited Airport Infrastructure

Unlike Zurich (ZRH) or Geneva (GVA), Graubünden’s airports have smaller runways and fewer facilities, making them more vulnerable to disruptions. If an incoming flight is delayed, departing flights often get pushed back, creating a domino effect.

3. Air Traffic Congestion

While Graubünden doesn’t handle the same volume of flights as Switzerland’s larger airports, delays can still occur due to congestion at major hubs like Zurich, where many passengers transit before flying into the region.

4. Technical or Airline Staffing Issues

If an airline experiences an operational issue, such as a mechanical problem or crew shortage, it can lead to flight delays. In these cases, you may be eligible for compensation because the airline is responsible for the delay.

Am I Entitled to Compensation for a Delayed Flight?

Under EC Regulation 261/2004, you are eligible for compensation if:

✔ Your flight was delayed by more than 3 hours upon arrival
✔ The delay was caused by the airline’s fault (technical issues, staffing problems, overbooking, etc.)
✔ Your flight originated from an EU airport or was operated by an EU airline

Compensation Amount Based on Flight Distance

• €250 – Flights up to 1,500 km

• €400 – Flights between 1,500 km – 3,500 km

• €600 – Flights over 3,500 km

If your flight was delayed due to bad weather, air traffic control decisions, or security concerns, airlines are not required to compensate passengers. However, if the delay was due to an airline issue, you have the right to claim compensation.

What Should You Do If Your Flight Is Delayed in Graubünden?

Step 1: Track the Length of the Delay

Compensation eligibility starts after three hours of delay upon arrival at your final destination. Check flight updates regularly.

Step 2: Request Proof of Delay

Ask the airline for written confirmation of the delay, including the reason for it. Take screenshots of delay notifications, and keep your boarding pass and booking details.

Step 3: Know Your Passenger Rights

If your flight is delayed for several hours, the airline must provide you with meals, drinks, and hotel accommodation if necessary. You can demand these benefits at the airport.

Step 4: Claim Compensation

Instead of dealing with airlines’ long response times and paperwork, Trouble Flight can handle the claim process for you. You can receive your compensation without stress, delays, or hidden fees.

Alternative Travel Options in Case of a Long Delay

If your flight is severely delayed or canceled, consider alternative routes to your destination. Graubünden is well connected to several Swiss and nearby international airports, offering potential backup travel options.

1. Zurich Airport (ZRH) – 150 km Away

As Switzerland’s largest airport, Zurich (ZRH) offers many alternative flights that could help you reach your destination sooner.

🚆 How to Get to Zurich Airport from Graubünden:

• Train: Swiss Rail (SBB) runs direct trains from Chur to Zurich Airport in about 90 minutes.

• Car Rental: A drive from Chur to Zurich Airport takes about 1 hour 40 minutes.

2. Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) – 200 km Away

For international travelers, Milan Malpensa (MXP) offers additional flight options, especially for budget airlines.

🚆 How to Get to Milan Malpensa from Graubünden:

• Train & Bus: Travel via Chur to Lugano, then take a direct bus to Milan Malpensa.

• Car: Driving takes approximately 2.5 hours via the A2 motorway.

Checking flights from Zurich or Milan could help you avoid long delays and get to your destination faster.

Why Choose Trouble Flight for Your Claim?

Filing a compensation claim on your own can be frustrating—airlines often reject valid claims or delay responses. That’s where Trouble Flight comes in:

✔ Quick & Hassle-Free Process – Enter your flight details, and we handle the rest.
✔ No Win, No Fee – You only pay if we successfully claim your compensation.
✔ Legal Support Included – If the airline refuses to pay, we take legal action at no extra cost.

Don’t let the airline keep money that belongs to you—if your flight was delayed in Graubünden, we’ll fight for your rights and get you the compensation you deserve.

Final Thoughts: Claim What’s Yours for a Flight Delay in Graubünden

Flight delays in Graubünden can be frustrating, especially when they disrupt travel plans, cause missed connections, or ruin vacations. But you don’t have to let the airline get away with it—if your flight was delayed due to reasons within their control, you deserve financial compensation.

Don’t waste time dealing with airline bureaucracy—submit your claim today and get up to €600!