How much compensation can I claim for a delayed flight?

You can claim between £220 and £520 depending on the distance of your flight. Short-haul flights under 1,500km qualify for £220, medium-haul flights between 1,500-3,500km qualify for £350, and long-haul flights over 3,500km qualify for £520.

What is the 3-hour rule for flight delays?

Under EU261 and UK261 regulations, you are entitled to compensation if your flight arrives at your final destination more than 3 hours late. The delay is measured by when the aircraft doors open at your destination.

How long do I have to claim flight compensation?

In the UK, you have up to 6 years from the date of your flight to make a claim. However, we recommend claiming as soon as possible while the details are fresh.

What does no win no fee mean?

No win, no fee means you only pay if your claim is successful. If your claim is unsuccessful, you won't pay anything. This removes the financial risk of making a claim.

How to Claim Flight Compensation

A complete step-by-step guide to claiming your compensation for delayed, cancelled, or overbooked flights.

Check Your Eligibility First

Gather Your Documents

Before starting your claim, collect all relevant documentation. The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim.

Essential Documents

Booking confirmation email
E-ticket or booking reference
Boarding pass (if available)
Photo ID details

Helpful Evidence

Emails/texts about the disruption
Photos of departure boards
Receipts for expenses
Written reason from airline

Check Your Eligibility

Before investing time in a claim, make sure you're eligible. Use our free eligibility checker to get an instant assessment.

Quick Eligibility Checklist

Flight departed from UK or EU airport
Arrived 3+ hours late OR cancelled with less than 14 days notice
Within the last 6 years
Not due to extraordinary circumstances

Use Our Eligibility Checker

Choose How to Claim

You have two main options for making a claim. Each has its advantages depending on your situation.

Claim Directly

Free

Keep 100% of compensation
No fees to pay
More time-consuming
Airlines may reject valid claims
May need to handle appeals yourself

Best for: Simple, straightforward claims

Use a Claims Company

No Win, No Fee

Experts handle everything
Higher success rates
Will take legal action if needed
Only pay if successful
Fee of 25-35% on success

Best for: Complex cases or rejected claims

Submit Your Claim

If claiming directly, contact the airline through their official channels. Most airlines have online claim forms.

What to Include in Your Claim

• Your full name (as on booking)
• Booking reference number
• Flight number and date
• Departure and arrival airports
• Description of what happened
• Length of delay on arrival
• Reason given by airline (if any)
• Compensation amount you're claiming
• Your contact details and bank details for payment

What to Expect

After submitting your claim, here's what typically happens:

Acknowledgment (1-2 weeks)

The airline should acknowledge receipt of your claim.

Investigation (4-8 weeks)

They'll review your claim against their records.

Decision

You'll receive either approval and payment, or a rejection with reasons.

If Your Claim Is Rejected

Don't give up! Airlines often reject valid claims hoping passengers won't pursue them further.

1. Request Written Explanation

Ask for detailed reasons for the rejection. Sometimes airlines cite incorrect or vague reasons.

2. Appeal to the Airline

Respond with evidence challenging their reasons. Cite the specific regulations that support your claim.

3. Contact the CAA

The Civil Aviation Authority offers a free complaints service for UK-regulated flights.

4. Small Claims Court

For claims up to £10,000, you can take the airline to small claims court. Fees start from £35.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Start Your Claim?

Check your eligibility first to make sure you have a valid claim before you begin.

Check Your Eligibility Now