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Claims & Compensation2 min check

Flight Delay Compensation Checker

Indicative check using UK261 / EC261 rules. Covers flights departing the UK/EU, and flights into the UK/EU on UK/EU airlines.

Short answer

UK261 / EU261 compensation applies for delays of 3+ hours arriving on a UK or EU airline (or any flight from a UK/EU airport): £220 short-haul (under 1,500km), £350 medium-haul, £520 long-haul. 'Extraordinary circumstances' (severe weather, ATC strikes) exempt the airline.
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How it works

We check 4 things: 3+ hour arrival delay, eligible flight (departing UK/EU or arriving on UK/EU airline), within 6 years (UK) / 1–6 years (EU country), and not extraordinary circumstances. If yes, the fixed compensation amount applies regardless of ticket price.

Worked example

BA London→New York delayed 5 hours due to crew shortage → 7,000km long-haul → £520 per passenger (4 passengers = £2,080).

Who should use this

  • Anyone delayed 3+ hours in last 6 years
  • Cancelled flights with under 14 days' notice
  • Denied boarding due to overbooking

Common mistakes

  • ×Accepting vouchers instead of cash compensation
  • ×Believing the airline's 'extraordinary circumstances' claim without questioning (technical faults are usually not extraordinary)
  • ×Missing the 6-year limit (UK)
  • ×Using an expensive claims firm — most airlines pay direct claims with one email

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a claims firm?

No. Email the airline directly first using free templates from CAA or MSE — most pay within 4–8 weeks.

How far back can I claim?

6 years in England/Wales, 5 in Scotland, varies in EU countries (1–10 years).

Strike disruption?

Airline staff strikes = compensation due. ATC or airport staff strikes = extraordinary, no compensation.

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