How the calculator works
Our calculator uses the same rules a court would apply under Regulation EU261. From the route (which sets the distance) and the type of disruption (delay, cancellation or overbooking), it estimates the compensation you would be owed and tells you whether it is likely, possible or unlikely that you can claim it.
It is only an indicative estimate: the final result depends on the details of each case and on the airline being unable to blame a cause outside its control. To be sure about your specific flight, search for it in our database. And if you are still not sure whether you qualify, try the eligibility checker.
What affects the amount
Compensation for a flight is not a random figure. It depends above all on these factors:
- The flight distance. This sets the base amount: €250 up to 1,500 km, €400 between 1,500 and 3,500 km, and €600 for flights over 3,500 km outside the EU.
- The type of disruption. A delay requires arriving 3 hours or more late; a cancellation, being told less than 14 days ahead; overbooking gives the full compensation straight away.
- The re-routing. If the airline re-booked you and cut the delay substantially, the compensation can drop by half (for example €300 instead of €600).
- The cause. If it was an extraordinary circumstance (severe weather, an air traffic control strike), there may be no compensation, though still care.
If you want the full detail, read our guide to flight compensation.
The 3-hour rule
For delays, the law sets a clear limit: you are paid only if you reach your final destination 3 hours or more late. And it is the arrival time that counts, not the departure. So when using the calculator, enter the real delay with which you landed, not the one announced at the gate.
Examples of how much is paid
To give you an idea, here are some typical calculations you would see with the calculator:
- Madrid → London, 3 h 30 delay: flight under 1,500 km → €250 per person.
- Barcelona → New York, cancelled with no notice: flight over 3,500 km → €600 per person.
- Madrid → New York, 3 h 20 delay: long-haul, but a delay of between 3 and 4 hours → €300 (half).
- Palma → Frankfurt, overbooking: flight of about 1,300 km → €250 straight away.
Remember the amount is per passenger: if several of you travelled, it multiplies. The calculator gives the figure per person.
Frequently asked questions
Is the calculator accurate?
It gives a very reliable estimate because it applies the real rules of Regulation EU261 (distance, type of disruption and thresholds). Even so, it is indicative: the final result depends on the details of your case and the cause of the problem.
Do I need to know the distance of my flight?
No. You only have to enter the departure and arrival airports; we calculate the straight-line distance and the amount you would be owed.
Why does it ask for the airline?
It is only needed in one case: when your flight arrives in the EU from outside. There the compensation depends on the airline being European. If your flight departs from the EU, the airline does not matter and you can leave the field empty.
Is it free and anonymous?
Yes. Calculating your compensation is free and we do not ask for any personal data. Only if you decide to claim will we need your details, and we work no win, no fee.