Norway, a land of stunning fjords, northern lights, and charming cities, is a dream destination for many travelers. Whether you're visiting Oslo’s vibrant city life, experiencing the beauty of Bergen, or heading north to Tromsø for an Arctic adventure, flight disruptions can quickly ruin your plans. If your flight was delayed while departing from or arriving in Norway, you might be eligible for compensation under European passenger rights regulations.
In this guide, we’ll explain your rights, how to claim compensation, and how much you might be entitled to. Plus, we’ll provide useful travel tips for dealing with flight delays in Norway, including alternative routes and transport options.
Under EC261/2004, passengers on flights departing from or arriving in Norway (on an EU-based airline) may be entitled to compensation if their flight was delayed for three hours or more at the final destination.
To qualify for compensation, your delayed flight must meet the following criteria:
The delay must be at least 3 hours at your final destination.
The airline must be responsible for the delay (technical issues, crew shortages, operational problems, etc.).
You must have a valid ticket and booking confirmation.
The flight must be recent (within the last 3-6 years, depending on the country).
If your delay was caused by extraordinary circumstances—such as extreme weather, political instability, air traffic control strikes, or security risks—then the airline is not obliged to pay compensation.
The compensation amount depends on the flight distance:
Distance | Delay | Compensation (€) |
---|---|---|
Up to 1,500 km | 3+ hours | 250 |
1,500 – 3,500 km | 3+ hours | 400 |
Over 3,500 km (EU-based airline) | 3-4 hours | 300 |
Over 3,500 km (EU-based airline) | 4+ hours | 600 |
So, if you were flying from Oslo to London and your flight was delayed for four hours, you could claim up to €250 per passenger. If you were flying from Bergen to New York, your compensation could be €600 per passenger.
Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL) is Norway’s largest and busiest airport, handling millions of passengers every year. If your flight is delayed here, follow these steps:
Check the Reason for the Delay – Ask the airline for an official statement about the cause of the delay.
Keep Your Boarding Pass and Receipts – If the delay forces you to buy food or accommodation, keep all receipts.
Ask for Assistance – If the delay exceeds two hours, the airline must provide meals and refreshments.
Check Your Alternative Flight Options – If your delay is severe, check flights from Sandefjord Torp Airport (TRF) or Moss Rygge Airport (RYG).
You can reach Torp Airport from Oslo in about 1.5 hours by train or shuttle bus. If flights are available there, switching airports might save your trip!
Bergen, known for its picturesque waterfront and gateway to the fjords, sees many tourists passing through. If your flight is delayed:
Check for flights from Stavanger Airport (SVG), just a few hours away.
Ask the airline if they can rebook you on another flight.
Located above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is a hotspot for northern lights chasers. If your flight is delayed:
Consider alternative routes via Bodø (BOO) or Evenes (EVE).
Airlines often provide hotel stays if your delay extends overnight.
Not all airlines are covered by EC261/2004. Here’s a breakdown:
✅ Covered by EC261 (compensation possible):
Norwegian Air Shuttle (when departing from an EU airport)
SAS (Scandinavian Airlines)
Widerøe
Lufthansa, KLM, Air France, British Airways (when departing from Norway)
❌ Not Covered (unless departing from the EU):
Qatar Airways
Emirates
Turkish Airlines
If your flight was with a non-EU airline but departed from Norway, you may still be eligible!
Boarding pass and ticket confirmation
Official airline statement about the delay
Any receipts for extra expenses (meals, hotels, taxis)
You can file a claim directly with the airline, but they often reject claims unfairly. That’s why it’s better to let professionals handle your case—we ensure you get up to €600 per passenger without the hassle.
Once approved, the airline will process your compensation. This can take a few weeks, but we handle everything to make sure you get paid.
Several factors can cause flight delays in Norway, including:
Harsh Winter Weather – Snow and ice often disrupt flights at Oslo, Tromsø, and Bergen.
Busy Summer Travel Season – High demand leads to congestion and delays.
Technical Issues – Airlines sometimes experience mechanical problems that cause disruptions.
Strikes & Air Traffic Control Delays – These are rare but can affect your flight.
If the delay is due to airline responsibility, you must claim compensation!
Stay Updated – Use airline apps for real-time delay notifications.
Check Nearby Airports – You might find an alternative flight from Torp (TRF) or Stavanger (SVG).
Know Your Rights – Airlines won’t always inform you about your compensation rights!
Keep Proof of Expenses – If you spend money due to the delay, you can request reimbursement.
If your flight was delayed in Norway for 3+ hours, you could claim up to €600 per passenger. Don't let the airline keep your money—submit your claim now and get what you’re owed!