Los Angeles to Paris Flight Cancelled: Compensation Guide
Flights from LAX to Paris CDG are operated by both US carriers and Air France. Whether EU261 applies depends on which airline flies you. Here is what each scenario entitles you to and how to claim it.
Air France vs. US Carriers: Different Rules
The LAX to Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) route is served by Air France (an EU carrier) and US carriers including Delta and United. The coverage difference is significant.
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Air France LAX to CDG: Covered by EU261. As an EU carrier, Air France is covered on all flights it operates. Up to €600 per person.
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Delta LAX to CDG: Not covered by EU261. Delta is not an EU carrier and the flight departs outside the EU. Only DOT rules apply.
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United LAX to CDG: Same as Delta. DOT rules only.
This is why airline choice matters. On the same LAX to Paris route, an Air France passenger can claim €600 per person for a 3-hour delay, while a Delta passenger on the same route gets nothing beyond a DOT refund. Always check the operating carrier.
Compensation for Air France Passengers
LAX to CDG is approximately 9,100 km, well over the 3,500 km long-haul threshold. Air France passengers are entitled to €600 per person (roughly $650) for delays of 3 or more hours at arrival. France has a 5-year limitation period, so flights disrupted up to 5 years ago may still be claimable.
For details on the Air France claims process, see our Air France compensation guide. For how EU261 amounts work, read our compensation amounts guide.
DOT Rights for All Passengers
All LAX to Paris flights, regardless of airline, are covered by DOT rules. If your flight is cancelled or delayed 6+ hours (international threshold), you are entitled to a full cash refund. For the general refund process, see our refund guide.
The Return Flight
Paris CDG to LAX flights depart from an EU airport, so EU261 covers all airlines on the return, including Delta and United. A delayed Delta flight from Paris to LAX is covered by EU261 even though Delta is a US carrier. Check your flight to see exactly what you are owed. For LAX airport delays, see our airport guide.
Book the return on any airline and EU261 still applies. CDG departures are covered regardless of carrier. This is the key advantage of EU261 for US travelers returning from Europe.