APPR Explained
A comprehensive guide to Canada's Air Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR), including compensation amounts, eligibility, and how to file a claim.
What is APPR?
The Air Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR) are Canadian federal rules that came into effect in July 2019. They require airlines to compensate passengers for flight disruptions that are within the airline's control, including delays, cancellations, denied boarding, and baggage issues.
Who is covered?
APPR applies to all flights departing from or arriving in Canada on Canadian airlines, and to flights departing from Canada on foreign airlines. This includes both domestic and international flights.
Compensation for flight delays & cancellations
Large carriers (Air Canada, WestJet) must pay: $400 for 3-6 hour delays, $700 for 6-9 hours, and $1,000 for 9+ hours. Small carriers (Porter, Flair, Sunwing) must pay: $125, $250, and $500 respectively. These apply only when the disruption is within the airline's control and not safety-related.
Denied boarding compensation
If you're involuntarily denied boarding (bumped), airlines must pay $900 (3-6h delay), $1,800 (6-9h), or $2,400 (9h+). These are the highest APPR compensation amounts.
Baggage protections
Under the Montreal Convention (which works alongside APPR), airlines are liable for up to approximately $2,850 CAD for delayed, lost, or damaged baggage. You must report baggage issues promptly and file a formal claim.
The three categories of disruption
Airlines categorize disruptions as: (1) Within their control — full compensation owed; (2) Within control but safety-related — rebooking required but no cash compensation; (3) Outside their control (weather, air traffic control) — minimal obligations. Airlines often miscategorize disruptions to avoid paying.
How long do I have to file an APPR claim?
File with the airline within 1 year of the disruption. If unsatisfied with the response (or no response after 30 days), you can escalate to the Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA).
Do I need a lawyer to file a claim?
No. The APPR process is designed for self-representation. Our tool generates the formal demand letter you need to file with the airline, and if needed, with the CTA.
What if the airline says the delay was due to weather?
Airlines sometimes miscategorize delays. If your delay was actually caused by crew scheduling, mechanical issues, or operational decisions, it may be "within their control" regardless of weather at other airports.
Can I claim for flights I took years ago?
The CTA generally considers complaints filed within 1 year. For older disruptions, the airline may argue the claim is time-barred, though there's no absolute statutory limitation in APPR itself.