flight delay compensation for children?

[Deleted User]

My apologies if this is discussed elsewhere, but I searched and could not find mention of it.

I am seeking compensation from American Airlines for 2 adults, 2 children from last summer after a 14 delayed arrival.

I wrote to airline, they did not respond so a few weeks ago raised a claim through MCOL.

I have been contacted by a UK law firm representing them. They have said they can not defend the claim, and that they have requested the airline for funds to settle. However the barrister has said that due to legal technicalities and protection of compensation for minors, that element claimed in the children's names has to go through a court, which he will arrange and pay for. This is despite obviously that their tickets were paid for by me...

Is this standard - I cant remember reading this anywhere else.

NoviceAngel

Ermmm, well you have me on this one, as far as I'm aware, they could settle this case out of court, if they wish to. I don't see any advantage for either party to go through the courts, in fact MCOL can only deal with single claimants anyway, this one is perhaps best left to Master Yoda!

JPears

Well thats a new one on me! How bizarre.
I don't think they are trying to wangle out of paying from what you say but it does seem unnecessarily complicated.
Just ask the airline to pay you directly rather than via a solicitor.