Regarding the EC261 regulation, I know Article 7 (compensation) doesn't apply if the flight is cancelled more than two weeks in advance. However, it's always been my understanding that Article 8 (right to a choice between a refund and re-routing "at the earliest opportunity") and Article 9 (right to care) apply regardless, the latter provided I haven't opted for a refund.
+However, the Irish national enforcement body just told me Article 8 and 9 don't apply either if the flight was cancelled two weeks or more in advance, and that I can only get a refund and am on my own in terms of getting home.
+Is this really the case? Some clarification would be appreciated.
+UPDATE Thankfully turned out only the phone representative was incompetent (which is bad enough!) The "Air Passenger Rights Manager" e-mailed me saying they'll log my case and that I should drop them a message if Ryanair rejects my claim for reimbursement for two rail tickets (I was originally going to book KLM to get home but went with Ryanair+rail)
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+ The plain language of Article 5 backs up your understanding, and the European Commission's interpretive guidelines (from March) confirm it as well. It's possible there has been further guidance and/or rule changes since March, though.
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+– Michael Seifert
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+ Nov 23, 2020 at 12:50
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+ @MichaelSeifert Upon reading Article 5, the "unless" could be interpreted as covering 1(a-c), but I've always read it as only covering 1(c). Dear, could Mr. O'Leary actually have "bribed" the Irish NEB into scamming passengers!?
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+– Crazydre
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+ Nov 23, 2020 at 13:04
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