Flight Delay Compensation
If your flight arrived more than 3 hours late, you could be entitled to compensation of up to €600 per passenger under EU261 regulations.
Flight Delayed or Cancelled?
Get up to €600 compensation
Understanding Flight Delay Compensation
Flight delays are frustrating, but they don't have to be a total loss. Under EU Regulation 261/2004, passengers have legal rights to compensation when flights are significantly delayed. This applies to all flights departing from EU airports (regardless of airline) and flights arriving in the EU operated by EU carriers.
When Are You Eligible?
You may claim compensation when your flight arrives at its final destination:
- 3+ hours late for flights up to 3,500 km
- 4+ hours late for non-EU flights over 3,500 km
The delay is measured by arrival time (when the doors open), not departure time. This is important because airlines sometimes depart late but make up time in the air.
What Counts as "Extraordinary Circumstances"?
Airlines don't have to pay compensation if the delay was caused by circumstances beyond their control. However, they interpret this broadly, so know your rights:
Valid extraordinary circumstances (no compensation):
- Severe weather (snow, fog, storms, volcanic ash)
- Air traffic control restrictions or strikes
- Security threats
- Political instability
NOT extraordinary circumstances (compensation owed):
- Technical faults or maintenance issues
- Crew sickness or scheduling problems
- Fuel supply issues
- Bird strikes (in many cases)
- Delayed turnaround from previous flight
Delay Compensation Amounts
| Distance | Compensation | Minimum Delay | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 1,500 km | €250 | 3+ hours | London-Amsterdam, Paris-Rome |
| 1,500 - 3,500 km | €400 | 3+ hours | London-Athens, Berlin-Istanbul |
| Over 3,500 km (within EU) | €400 | 3+ hours | Lisbon-Helsinki |
| Over 3,500 km (outside EU) | €600 | 4+ hours | London-New York, Paris-Tokyo |
Airline-Specific Information
British Airways
Generally responsive to claims. 6-year claim window in UK.
Ryanair
Often disputes claims initially. Persistence pays off.
easyJet
Relatively straightforward claims process.
Lufthansa
May require multiple follow-ups. German 3-year limit.
Air France
French 5-year claim window. Usually settles valid claims.
Claim Your Compensation
Check Your Eligibility with AirHelp
Free eligibility check in under 3 minutes. No win, no fee.
3 Minutes
Quick eligibility check
Up to €600
Per passenger
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When we take your case
AirHelp handles everything: paperwork, airline negotiations, and legal proceedings if needed. You only pay if you receive compensation.
Check Your Eligibility with Compensair
Free eligibility check in under 3 minutes. No win, no fee.
3 Minutes
Quick eligibility check
Up to €600
Per passenger
25% Fee
Only if you win
Compensair handles everything: paperwork, airline negotiations, and legal proceedings if needed. You only pay 25% if you receive compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does my flight need to be delayed to claim compensation?
Under EU261, your flight must arrive at its final destination more than 3 hours late (or 4 hours for flights over 3,500km) to qualify for compensation. Short delays do not qualify, but you may still be entitled to meals and refreshments.
Can I claim compensation if my flight was delayed due to weather?
No, severe weather is considered an "extraordinary circumstance" and airlines are not required to pay compensation. However, they must still provide care (meals, accommodation) during the delay.
What if the airline says the delay was due to a technical fault?
Technical faults are generally NOT considered extraordinary circumstances. Courts have ruled that airlines should maintain their aircraft properly. You are likely entitled to compensation for delays caused by technical issues.
How do I prove my flight was delayed?
Keep your boarding pass, booking confirmation, and any communication from the airline. Flight tracking websites also maintain historical records. AirHelp can verify flight data for you automatically.
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