Flight Delay Compensation UK
Was your flight delayed by more than 3 hours? You could be entitled to up to £520 in compensation under UK and EU law.
Check If You Can ClaimWhat Is Flight Delay Compensation?
Flight delay compensation is money that airlines are legally required to pay passengers when their flight arrives significantly late at the final destination. This right is protected under EU Regulation 261/2004 (EU261) and its UK equivalent, UK261.
The compensation is a fixed amount based on the distance of your flight, not the price you paid for your ticket. Even if you flew on a cheap fare, you could be entitled to the full compensation amount.
Importantly, this compensation is separate from any refund or expenses. You can claim compensation AND be reimbursed for any costs you incurred due to the delay.
EU261 and UK261 Regulations Explained
EU261
EU Regulation 261/2004 has been in force since 2005 and protects passengers on:
- All flights departing from EU airports (any airline)
- Flights arriving in the EU on EU-based airlines
UK261
Following Brexit, the UK adopted its own version (UK261) which covers:
- All flights departing from UK airports (any airline)
- Flights arriving in the UK on UK-based airlines
The 3-Hour Rule: When Are You Eligible?
You are entitled to compensation if your flight arrives at your final destination more than 3 hours late.
The key word here is "arrives" - the delay is measured at your final destination, not at departure. The clock stops when the aircraft doors open, not when the plane touches down.
Not eligible for compensation
Eligible for full compensation
Eligible for full compensation
How Much Compensation Can You Claim?
The compensation amount is determined by the distance of your flight, measured by the great circle distance.
Compensation amounts are set by EU261 and UK261 regulations. Each passenger can claim individually.
These amounts are per passenger. If you're travelling as a family of 4, you could claim up to £2,080.
Extraordinary Circumstances: When Airlines Don't Have to Pay
Airlines are not required to pay compensation if the delay was caused by "extraordinary circumstances" - events outside their control that couldn't have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken.
Extraordinary Circumstances (No Compensation)
- • Severe weather conditions
- • Air traffic control strikes
- • Security risks or political instability
- • Bird strikes (usually)
- • Medical emergencies
NOT Extraordinary (Compensation Due)
- • Technical faults with the aircraft
- • Crew sickness or absence
- • Airline staff strikes
- • Operational issues
- • Fuel shortages
Time Limits for Claiming
In the UK, you have up to 6 years to claim compensation for a delayed flight.
However, we recommend claiming as soon as possible. Airlines are more likely to respond quickly when the details are fresh, and you'll have easier access to your documents.
How to Claim: Step-by-Step
Check your eligibility
Use our free eligibility checker to see if your delayed flight qualifies for compensation.
Gather your documents
Collect your booking confirmation, boarding pass, and any communication from the airline about the delay.
Submit your claim
You can claim directly with the airline or use a claims management company who will handle everything for you.
Wait for a response
Airlines should respond within a reasonable time. If they reject your claim unfairly, you can escalate to the Civil Aviation Authority or take legal action.
Receive your compensation
Once approved, you'll receive your compensation. The amount is fixed by law based on your flight distance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flight Delays
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