Stuck at the Airport? Here is How to Turn That Ajet Delay Into Cash
There are few things more frustrating than staring at a departure board that flashes “DELAYED” or “CANCELLED” in bright red letters. If you are reading this, chances are you have recently experienced a disruption with Ajet (formerly AnadoluJet). Whether you were left stranded in Istanbul, delayed in Tbilisi, or bumped from a flight in Europe, your travel plans have been derailed.
But here is the good news: You might be owed up to €600 ($650+) in cash compensation.
Many travelers assume that because Ajet is a Turkish carrier, European rules don’t apply, or that the process is too complicated to bother with. This is a costly mistake. Between Turkish aviation laws (SHY-PASSENGER) and European regulations (EU261), Ajet passengers have strong legal protections.
In this comprehensive guide for FlyGeorgia.com, we will walk you through the exact process of claiming compensation from Ajet. No legal jargon—just a clear, step-by-step roadmap to getting the money you legally deserve.
Table of Contents
The Golden Rules: Do You Qualify for Compensation?
How Much Money Can You Get? (The Compensation Calculator)
Ajet Policy Explained: EU261 vs. SHY-PASSENGER
Step-by-Step Guide: How to File Your Claim
Essential Documents You Must Have
The “Extraordinary Circumstances” Trap: When Ajet Won’t Pay
Timeline: How Long Does It Take?
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
1. The Golden Rules: Do You Qualify for Compensation?
Before you spend time filling out forms, let’s quickly determine if you are eligible. ajet Flight compensation is not automatic; it depends on the cause, the duration, and the route of your flight.
You ARE Eligible If:
The Delay: You arrived at your final destination 3 hours or more later than scheduled. (Note: Arrival time matters, not departure time!)
The Cancellation: Your flight was cancelled less than 14 days before departure.
Denied Boarding: You were bumped from the flight due to overbooking (involuntary denied boarding).
The Fault: The disruption was within Ajet’s control (e.g., technical faults, crew scheduling issues, airline strikes).
You ARE NOT Eligible If:
Extraordinary Circumstances: The disruption was caused by bad weather, political instability, air traffic control restrictions, or security risks.
You Were Late: You missed check-in or arrived at the gate after it closed.
Early Notice: You were informed of the cancellation more than 14 days in advance.
Pro Tip for Georgian Travelers: If you flew from Tbilisi (TBS) or Batumi (BUS) to Turkey, you are protected by Turkish regulations. If you flew from a European airport (like London, Berlin, or Paris) to Turkey/Georgia on Ajet, you are also protected by European Union laws.
2. How Much Money Can You Get? (The Compensation Calculator)
The amount of compensation is fixed by law. It is not based on how expensive your ticket was. You could have paid €50 for a ticket and still receive €400 in compensation!
Here is the breakdown based on flight distance:
| Flight Distance | Compensation Amount | Example Route |
| Short Haul (< 1,500 km) | €250 | Tbilisi to Istanbul |
| Medium Haul (1,500 – 3,500 km) | €400 | Tbilisi to London (via SAW) |
| Long Haul (> 3,500 km) | €600 | Flights outside EU/TR borders |
Note: If your delay was between 3 and 4 hours for long-haul flights, the compensation might be reduced by 50%.
Don’t Forget the “Right to Care”
If you are stuck at the airport for more than 2 hours, Ajet is legally required to provide you with:
Meals and refreshments (usually in the form of a voucher).
Two free phone calls or emails.
Hotel accommodation and transport if the delay requires an overnight stay.
Warning: If Ajet does not provide vouchers and you pay for your own food or hotel, keep every single receipt. You can claim this money back in addition to your compensation.
3. Ajet Policy Explained: EU261 vs. SHY-PASSENGER
Since Ajet is a Turkish carrier (a trademark of Turkish Airlines), the rules can get slightly confusing. Here is the simple version of what protects you.
The Turkish Regulation (SHY-PASSENGER)
This law mirrors European laws almost exactly. It applies to:
All flights departing from Turkish airports.
All flights arriving at Turkish airports operated by Turkish carriers (like Ajet).
Key Benefit: It ensures you are protected even if your flight is from Tbilisi to Istanbul, which is outside the EU.
The European Regulation (EC 261/2004)
This applies to:
Any flight departing from an EU/UK airport, regardless of the airline.
Example: If you fly London Stansted (STN) -> Istanbul (SAW), EU/UK laws protect you.
Example: If you fly Istanbul (SAW) -> London Stansted (STN), Turkish laws protect you.
Why does this distinction matter?
When you fill out your claim form, you may need to reference the correct regulation. If you are flying from Europe, cite EC 261/2004. If you are flying from Turkey or Georgia, cite SHY-PASSENGER.
4. Step-by-Step Guide: How to File Your Claim
This is the most important section. Follow these steps precisely to maximize your chances of approval.
Phase 1: At the Airport (Immediate Action)
1. Ask for the Reason
Ask the ground staff or gate agents exactly why the flight is delayed. Is it “technical” or “operational”? Write this down. If they say “operational reasons,” that is usually code for “airline’s fault,” which means you get paid.
2. Collect Evidence
Take a photo of the departure board showing the delay.
Take a screenshot of the Ajet app showing the new time.
Do not throw away your boarding pass!
3. Request the “Irregularity Report”
If your baggage is lost or if you are denied boarding, ask the Ajet desk for a written statement confirming the incident.
Phase 2: Submitting the Official Claim (The “DIY” Method)
You do not need a lawyer to do this. You can do it yourself for free.
Step 1: Go to the Official Ajet Feedback Page
Ajet does not have a giant “Claim Compensation” button. You must use their feedback/contact form.
Navigate to the Ajet official website.
Look for the “Contact Us” or “Feedback” section at the bottom of the page.
Select “New Feedback” or “Lodge a Complaint”.
Step 2: Fill in Passenger Details
Enter your name exactly as it appears on your passport and ticket. If you are claiming for a family, you may need to submit separate forms for each adult, or attach a signed power of attorney for them (usually, individual claims are safer).
Step 3: Write Your Description (Use This Template)
The “Description” box is where you make your case. Be professional, firm, and clear. Copy and paste this template:
Subject: Compensation Claim for Flight [Flight Number] on [Date]
To the Ajet Claims Team,
I am writing to claim compensation under [Regulation EC 261/2004 OR Turkish Regulation SHY-PASSENGER] for the disruption of my flight.
Flight Details:
Flight Number: [e.g., VF1234]
Date: [Date]
Departure: [Origin Airport]
Arrival: [Destination Airport]
Scheduled Arrival Time: [Time]
Actual Arrival Time: [Time]
Total Delay: [Number] hours and [Number] minutes
The delay was due to [Reason, e.g., technical fault/operational issue], which falls within the airline’s control.
According to the regulations, I am entitled to €[Insert Amount: 250/400/600] in compensation.
Additionally, I have attached receipts for expenses incurred (food/hotel) totaling [Amount] due to the lack of duty of care provided at the airport.
Please remit the total amount to the following bank account:
Bank Name:
IBAN:
SWIFT/BIC:
Account Holder Name:
I look forward to your response within 14 days.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Step 4: Attach Documents
Upload clear PDFs or JPGs of:
Your Booking Confirmation (E-ticket).
Boarding Passes (for all flights involved).
Passport ID page.
Receipts for food/hotel (if applicable).
Step 5: Record Your Feedback/Ticket Number
Once you hit submit, you will receive an automated email with a Feedback Reference Number (usually starting with TK or VF followed by numbers). Save this number. You will need it to chase them later.
Phase 3: The Waiting Game (Troubleshooting)
Ajet typically takes 14 to 30 days to respond.
- Scenario A: They Accept.Great! They will ask for your bank details (if you didn’t provide them) and transfer the money. This can take another 2-4 weeks.
- Scenario B: They Reject (Citing “Extraordinary Circumstances”).This is common. Airlines often auto-reject claims hoping you will give up. If they claim “weather” but other flights were flying, or “technical issues” (which are not extraordinary), you should push back.
Action: Reply to the email demanding proof of the extraordinary circumstance (e.g., flight logs or weather reports).
- Scenario C: They Ignore You.If 30 days pass with no reply, resubmit the form referencing your first ticket number. If that fails, you may need to escalate to the Turkish Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) or use a third-party service.
5. Essential Documents You Must Have
Organization is key. Create a folder on your phone or computer labeled “Ajet Claim” and ensure you have:
The E-Ticket: This proves you bought the flight. It must show the Ticket Number (usually starts with 235 for Turkish Airlines/Ajet stock).
Boarding Pass: This proves you actually traveled (or tried to). Digital wallet screenshots work fine.
Baggage Tags: Vital if your claim involves lost luggage.
Receipts: For meals, drinks, taxis, and hotels during the delay. Alcohol and luxury purchases are usually not reimbursed.
Bank Details: IBAN and SWIFT/BIC codes are required for international transfers.
6. The “Extraordinary Circumstances” Trap: When Ajet Won’t Pay
It is crucial to understand when Ajet can legally say “No.” The law protects airlines from events they cannot control.
Valid Excuses (No Compensation):
Severe Weather: Heavy snow, thunderstorms, or thick fog that grounds all flights, not just yours.
Political Instability: Wars or civil unrest.
Airport Strikes: If baggage handlers or Air Traffic Control go on strike (not Ajet pilots).
Bird Strikes: If a bird hits the engine, this is considered bad luck/extraordinary.
Security Risks: Terror threats or runway closures due to security.
Invalid Excuses (You Get Paid):
“Operational Reasons”: This is a catch-all term for poor planning.
“Technical Faults”: A broken part, engine issue, or flat tire is the airline’s responsibility to maintain.
Crew Timing Out: If the pilot is “out of hours,” that is a scheduling error by Ajet.
Late Incoming Aircraft: If the previous plane was late due to a non-extraordinary reason, your delay is also compensatable.
7. Timeline: How Long Does It Take?
Patience is a virtue here. Do not expect the money in your account tomorrow.
Submission to First Reply: 1 – 4 weeks.
Negotiation (if they reject initially): 2 – 8 weeks.
Payment Processing: 2 – 6 weeks after approval.
Total Estimated Time: 2 to 4 months.
Should I Use a Third-Party Company (like AirHelp or Skycop)?
If Ajet ignores you or the process is too stressful, you can use a claims management company.
Pros: They handle all the paperwork and legal fighting.
Cons: They take a huge cut (usually 25% to 50% of your money).
Recommendation: Try the DIY method above first. It takes 15 minutes. Only use a third party if Ajet denies your legitimate claim.
8. FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I claim for a flight that happened last year?
A: Yes! The statute of limitations varies, but in Turkey and many European countries, you can claim for flights up to 3 years back. Check your old emails!
Q: Ajet offered me a travel voucher instead of cash. Should I take it?
A: NO. Unless the voucher is worth significantly more than the cash value (e.g., they offer €800 voucher vs €600 cash), always take the cash. Vouchers have expiry dates and restrictions; cash does not.
Q: My flight was a “Codeshare” with Turkish Airlines. Who do I contact?
A: You always claim from the Operating Carrier—the airline whose plane and crew you actually flew with. If the plane was branded Ajet, you claim from Ajet, even if you bought the ticket on the Turkish Airlines website.
Q: Does my infant get compensation?
A: Generally, if you paid for a seat for the infant, yes. If they traveled on your lap for a small fee, it is a grey area, but recent court rulings suggest they may still be entitled to compensation. It is worth trying.
Q: I missed my connecting flight because the first one was late. What now?
A: If both flights were on the same booking (same ticket number), the delay is calculated based on when you arrived at your final destination. If you missed a connection and arrived 5 hours late at the end, you get the full compensation. If you booked two separate tickets (e.g., Kiwi.com “self-transfer”), Ajet is only responsible for their specific flight, not the missed connection.
Conclusion: Do Not Leave Money on the Table
Air travel is stressful enough without airlines keeping money that legally belongs to you. Ajet is a reputable airline, but like all businesses, they may not offer up compensation unless you ask for it correctly.
By following this guide, keeping your documents organized, and knowing your rights under SHY-PASSENGER and EU261, you are in a powerful position. That €400 check could pay for your next flight from Tbilisi!
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Safe travels!
