Missed connection and delayed on alternative flight - compensation?

Css_uk

Hi,

I was wondering if anyone could give me any advice on my situation.

My wife and I were flying from London Gatwick to Rio Brazil via New York. This was one travel booking - not separate flights/bookings.

Both legs of the journey were operated by American Airlines.

The 1st leg of the journey left late from London Gatwick due to runway issues (reported on the BBC etc). Due to arriving late at JFK we missed our connecting flight and next flight was scheduled for 24 hours later.

American Airlines said it couldn't help with accommodation/food or anything.

We went 24 hours later to take our flight, boarded the plane, waited 2/3 hours and were told that due to engine issues the flight had to be rearranged for the next lunchtime.

We stayed another night in New York but this time American Airlines did pay for our hotel.

I've contacted American Airlines and they don't think I'm eligible for any compensation as the flight from New York to Rio isn't covered by the EU compensation law.
My argument is that due to the missing connection - which wasn't our fault the proceeding flights which continued the original journey fall under cover from the EU compensation.

Can anyone give any advice on if I can pursue the full compensation?

Caz3121

the initial cause of the delay and the reason you were delayed to your final destination was the runway issues which would mean no compensation due
the delay on the JFK to Rio flight is not covered by EU261
EU261 Duty of Care should have applied I believe and AA should reimburse your first night expenses

Css_uk

Thanks for the reply!