Overview
Important Note: Czech Airlines (ČSA) ceased independent flight operations on October 26, 2024, and its operations were merged with Smartwings, which now manages all flights previously operated by Czech Airlines. The information below reflects the missed flight policy as it applied to Czech Airlines before this transition, based on available data and EU regulations. For current policies, passengers should refer to Smartwings’ terms and conditions.
The Czech Airlines missed flight policy outlined options for passengers who failed to board their scheduled flight due to personal reasons, airline-related delays, or other circumstances. The policy was governed by fare rules, ticket type, and EU/UK Regulation 261/2004 for flights departing from or landing in the EU/UK with Czech Airlines as the operating carrier.
Key Policy Details
- No-Show Policy: If you missed your flight without canceling in advance, it was considered a "no-show." Non-refundable tickets (e.g., Economy Lite) lost their value, and the entire itinerary could be canceled as tickets had to be used in sequence. Refunds were not available for no-shows unless specified by fare rules, but unused taxes and fees could be refunded.
- Non-Refundable Tickets: For non-refundable tickets, no refunds were provided for missed flights. Rebooking was possible, subject to availability, fare differences, and change fees (typically €50-€150, depending on fare type and route).
- Refundable Tickets: Economy Flex or Business Class tickets could be refunded for the unused portion, less any applicable fees, if requested within one year from the ticket’s issue date. Refunds were processed through the website or customer service for tickets purchased directly.
- 24-Hour Cancellation Policy: For bookings made directly with Czech Airlines, passengers could cancel or change their reservation within 24 hours of purchase without penalty, provided the booking was made at least 7 days before departure. This applied to all fare types but excluded additional services like baggage fees.
- Missed Connections Due to Delays: If you missed a connecting flight due to a delay or cancellation of a Czech Airlines-operated flight within the same booking, the airline would rebook you on the next available flight at no additional cost. If the delay exceeded 3 hours at your final destination and was within the airline’s control (e.g., technical issues or crew scheduling), you could be eligible for compensation of €250 for flights up to 1500 km, €400 for flights between 1500-3500 km, or €600 for flights over 3500 km under EU/UK Regulation 261/2004.
- Assistance for Delays: For delays of 2+ hours within the airline’s control, Czech Airlines provided meals, refreshments, and communication access (e.g., two phone calls or emails). For delays of 5+ hours, passengers could opt for a refund or rebooking. Overnight delays included hotel accommodation and transport, if available.
- Extraordinary Circumstances: No compensation was provided for missed flights due to extraordinary circumstances (e.g., weather, air traffic control, or non-airline strikes). The airline would assist with rebooking or refunding unused taxes and fees.
- Denied Boarding: If you missed a flight due to overbooking, Czech Airlines would offer rebooking on the next available flight and compensation of €250-€600, depending on flight distance, if the issue was within their control.
Steps to Take if You Missed Your Flight
- Contact customer service immediately via the Smartwings website, mobile app, or airport counter to discuss rebooking or refund options, as Smartwings now handles former Czech Airlines operations.
- Provide your booking reference and explain the reason for missing the flight to determine eligibility for rebooking, refunds, or tax refunds.
- Check your ticket’s fare rules to understand applicable fees, restrictions, or refund eligibility.
- Submit compensation or refund claims to the Customer Relations Department, including your name, booking reference, and supporting documents (e.g., boarding passes, receipts).
- Keep all documentation for any claims or expense reimbursements.
Note: Policies varied based on ticket type, fare rules, and booking channel (direct or through a travel agency). For code-share flights, the operating carrier’s rules applied. Passengers were advised to arrive early (2 hours for short-haul, 3 hours for long-haul flights) and consider travel insurance for added protection. Check-in closed 40-60 minutes before departure, depending on the airport. As of October 26, 2024, all Czech Airlines bookings and operations are managed by Smartwings.
Additional Information
If Czech Airlines canceled or delayed your flight by 3+ hours, you could choose a refund, rebooking, or compensation, depending on the circumstances. Refunds were processed within 7 days for unused tickets or taxes under EU/UK regulations. Compensation claims for delays or cancellations could be filed within 3 years for EU/UK flights. Always retain documentation for expenses incurred due to a missed flight. For current policies, refer to Smartwings’ conditions of carriage, as Czech Airlines no longer operates independently.
