The flight delay compensation guide explains your passenger rights and compensation entitlements by region. EU261 provides some of the strongest passenger protections in the world.
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How to Claim Flight Delay Compensation
EU261 is by far the most passenger-friendly regulation globally. If your flight departs from an EU airport (on any airline) or arrives at an EU airport on an EU airline, you're entitled to up to €600 per passenger for significant delays or cancellations — regardless of ticket price.
The "extraordinary circumstances" loophole
Airlines frequently reject EU261 claims citing "extraordinary circumstances" — weather, air traffic control strikes, security issues. While legitimate for true events, airlines routinely misuse this defense. Bird strikes, technical faults discovered during maintenance, and staffing issues are NOT extraordinary circumstances and you can still claim. Escalate rejected claims to your national enforcement body.
DIY vs third-party claim services
You can file EU261 claims directly with the airline (free) or use services like AirHelp, Flightright, or ClaimCompass (they charge 25-35% of compensation). DIY is worth it for straightforward cases — fill out the airline's claim form, wait 14 days, then escalate to the national enforcement body. Third-party services are useful if you're short on time or the airline stonewalls.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much compensation can I get for a delayed EU flight?
Under EU261, up to €250 for short-haul flights, €400 for medium-haul, and €600 for long-haul flights delayed by 3+ hours or cancelled. These apply to all flights departing EU airports and flights arriving on EU-based carriers.
Does EU261 apply to non-EU airlines?
Yes — EU261 applies to ALL airlines for flights departing from an EU airport. For flights arriving to an EU airport, only EU-based airlines are covered. So a Delta flight from London to New York is not covered, but a Delta flight from Paris to New York is.
Can airlines refuse EU261 compensation?
Airlines can reject claims citing 'extraordinary circumstances' (genuine weather events, security incidents, ATC strikes). However, technical faults, staffing problems, and 'discovered late' technical issues are NOT extraordinary circumstances. Rejected claims should be escalated.
Do US airlines have to compensate for delays?
No — US law only requires compensation for involuntary bumping, not delays. For cancellations, you're entitled to a full refund. Some airlines voluntarily provide vouchers for significant delays but are not legally required to.
Is this guide free?
Yes, completely free and no signup required.