Know your rights as a passenger to the situation in the Middle East

Madrid 12 March 2026 (AESA)

Due to the current situation in the Middle East and the Persian Gulf, many passengers are experiencing disruptions in their journeys to Spain, both on flights from third countries with connections in the Middle East and on direct routes from this area or Cyprus.

This situation is affecting all actors in the air transport system. Therefore, from AESA we want to remind you what your rights are as a passenger so that, if you are affected by this situation, you can face it in the best possible way and know how to act.

It is important to note that these rights may vary depending on the place of departure and the airline responsible for the affected flight.

The following table provides guidance on whether your affected flight is covered by European law and it is possible to file a complaint with AESA:

Iceland, Norway and Switzerland, for the purposes of passenger rights, act as if they were EU states.

To file a claim with AESA, you must first complain to the airline. For more information, visit the Passenger Rights section of the AESA website.

In case your flight is not covered by European regulations, you should contact the competent passenger rights authority of the country where the incident occurred:

• Competent authorities Regulation (EC) 261/2004 on compensation in the event of denied boarding, cancellation or long delay of flights.
• Competent authorities Regulation (EC) 1107/2006 on the rights of disabled persons and persons with reduced mobility when travelling by air.

In this context, the Agency encourages airlines, regardless of whether or not European regulations apply in each case, to do everything possible to minimize the impact on their passengers, keeping them informed and offering them the necessary attention.

We recommend all passengers, on the one hand, to consult the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation, where you will find more specific information according to the country; and on the other hand, check the status of the flight with your airline before moving to the airport.

Additional information

•  FAQs EU on assistance to passengers for flight disruptions to the Middle East countries caused by the situation in Iran.