German Phrase
Die Flüge haben Verspätung.
Meaning
This sentence informs that the scheduled flights are experiencing a delay. It uses the plural noun 'Flüge' (flights) with the verb 'haben' to indicate that the flights possess the state of being delayed.
When to use
Use this phrase at airports, when speaking with airline staff, or when informing fellow travelers that the flights you are waiting for are running late.
✦Grammar Breakdown
DieFlügehabenVerspätung
Definite article (plural)
'Die' is the nominative plural definite article used before plural nouns like 'Flüge'.
Plural noun
'Flüge' is the plural of 'Flug' (flight) and serves as the subject of the sentence.
Verb agreement
'haben' is the present‑tense form of 'haben' that matches the plural subject.
Noun without article
'Verspätung' (delay) is used as a direct object; no article is needed after 'haben' in this construction.
🗨In Conversation
Entschuldigung, wissen Sie, ob die Flüge noch pünktlich sind?
Excuse me, do you know if the flights are still on time?
Leider haben die Flüge Verspätung.
Unfortunately, the flights are delayed.
✕Common Mistakes
Die Flüge ist Verspätung.
The verb must agree with the plural subject 'Flüge'. Use 'haben' instead of singular 'ist'.
Die Flüge haben Verzögerung.
While 'Verzögerung' also means delay, it is less common in spoken announcements about flights.
↔Alternatives
Die Flüge sind verspätet.
The flights are delayed.
Es gibt Verspätungen bei den Flügen.
There are delays with the flights.
Die Flüge kommen später als geplant.
The flights will arrive later than scheduled.
Cultural Tip
Germany is known for its punctuality, so delays are taken seriously and announced promptly. When you hear 'Verspätung', expect updates on the new departure time. In informal settings you might also hear 'Verspätung' shortened to 'Versp.' on display boards.