Flight compensation FAQ
Quick, plain-English answers to the questions passengers ask most about EU261 flight compensation — delays, cancellations, amounts, deadlines and refunds.
The basics in one line
If your flight departed the EU (any airline) or arrived in the EU on an EU airline, and it was delayed 3+ hours, cancelled with short notice, or overbooked through the airline's fault, you can usually claim €250–€600. Everything below expands on that — or just check your flight.
Frequently asked questions
How much flight compensation can I claim?
€250 for flights up to 1,500 km, €400 for 1,500–3,500 km, and €600 for flights over 3,500 km outside the EU. It is paid per passenger and can be halved on long flights where re-routing kept the delay under four hours.
How long does my flight have to be delayed?
You need to reach your final destination 3 hours or more late. It is the arrival time that counts, not the departure — so 2 h 59 min pays nothing and 3 h 1 min pays in full.
Which flights are covered by EU261?
Any flight departing an EU/EEA airport (with any airline), and any flight arriving in the EU/EEA on an EU/EEA airline. UK departures and UK airlines are covered by the equivalent UK261.
Can I still claim if the delay was caused by bad weather?
Usually not the cash compensation, because severe weather is an extraordinary circumstance. But you keep the right to care and, if you abandon the trip, to a refund. It is worth checking, as airlines often overuse this excuse.
Is a technical fault an extraordinary circumstance?
No. Courts have ruled that ordinary technical faults are part of running an airline and do not remove your right to compensation.
Can I get a refund and compensation?
Yes. A refund returns the fare for an unused ticket; compensation is a separate penalty for the disruption. Taking one does not cancel the other.
How long do I have to make a claim?
It depends on the country and typically ranges from about 2 to 6 years (6 in the UK, 5 in Spain, 3 in Germany). Old flights are often still claimable.
Does the ticket price affect what I get?
No. Compensation is fixed by distance, not by fare. A €30 ticket and a €300 ticket on the same route are owed the same amount.
What if I booked through a travel agent or as a package?
You can still claim EU261 compensation from the operating airline. Refunds for the flight portion may go through the agent or tour operator.
Do I have to pay to check or claim?
Checking is free. If you claim with us it is no win, no fee — we only take a commission if your compensation is actually paid.