Originally Posted by
plunet
So if AF was the operating carrier of the flight from MIA then you have a clear case for denied boarding under EU261. And the remedy will be money, something like €500-600 per person who presented correct documents but was denied boarding. There is no consideration for consequential costs, that's for you or your travel insurance.
Duty of care is one of the central elements of EC261, so I would DEFINITELY submit any directly relevant (hotel, meals, ground transportation) receipts I had along with my claim.
The following thread is a good place to glean insights on dealing with AF on that front, but it seems like the OP already has a good handle on things.
Compensations for Cancellations/Delays/Changes - EC 261/2004 MASTER THREAD for AF