A problem during travel may turn into a profit opportunity: Austrians will recover 2 million euros in 2025
Travelers in Austria recovered significant compensation in 2025, with an average payout of around €400 per case, as disputes over transport disruptions were increasingly resolved through a dedicated arbitration system.
The Agentur für Passagier- und Fahrgastrechte (apf) (Agency for Passenger Rights) reported that it helped secure nearly €2 million for passengers last year through more than 4,900 completed cases. The service, which handles disputes across rail, bus, ship, and air travel, allows travelers to claim their Rechte (rights) free of charge without commissions.
According to apf head ماريا-تيريزيا رويزلر, the organization’s years of experience enable quick and unkompliziert (unbureaucratic) solutions when dealing with transport companies. On average, each case took about 32 days to resolve, with passengers typically receiving an initial response within just one day of submitting a claim online.
Most compensation came from the aviation sector, accounting for €1.9 million of the total. Common issues included flight delays, cancellations, and baggage problems. In rail transport, passengers frequently filed claims over ticket refunds, service disruptions—especially on night trains—and fines. Meanwhile, the bus sector saw a rise in complaints, largely due to disputes involving inner-city transport services.
The highest number of cases were filed against AUA (Austrian Airlines), followed by ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) and Ryanair. Authorities stressed that all claims must be submitted in writing to ensure proper documentation and faster processing.