Introduction
Flight disruptions are frustrating, but UK passengers have strong legal protections under EU261/UK261 regulations (retained after Brexit). If your flight is delayed, cancelled, or you’re denied boarding, you may be owed cash compensation, refunds, or care packages—even if the airline doesn’t volunteer it.
Here’s your step-by-step guide to claiming what you’re owed.
Compensation for Delayed Flights
When Are You Eligible?
You can claim if:
✔ Your flight arrives 3+ hours late (short/medium-haul) or 4+ hours late (long-haul).
✔ The delay was the airline’s fault (e.g., crew shortages, technical issues).
🚫 No payout for “extraordinary circumstances” like storms, strikes, or security risks.
Compensation Amounts
| Flight Distance | Delay Threshold | Payout |
| Under 1,500 km (e.g., London–Paris) | 3+ hours | £220 |
| 1,500–3,500 km (e.g., London–Istanbul) | 3+ hours | £350 |
| Over 3,500 km (e.g., London–New York) | 4+ hours | £520 |
Example: A 5-hour delay on a London–Barcelona flight qualifies for £350.
Compensation for Cancelled Flights
✔ Refund or rebooking to your destination.
✔ Cash compensation (same amounts as delays) unless:
- The airline notified you 14+ days in advance, or
- The cancellation was due to extraordinary circumstances.
Pro Tip: Always check if the airline offers alternate flights—you might reach your destination faster and still claim compensation.
Your Rights to Care During Delays
Airlines must provide free assistance if you’re delayed:
| Delay Length | What You’re Owed |
| 2+ hours (short-haul) or 3+ hours (long-haul) | ☕ Meals & refreshments |
| Overnight delay | 🏨 Hotel + airport transfers |
| Any delay | 📞 2 free phone calls/emails |
Warning: If the airline only offers vouchers, insist on receipts for reimbursement.
Denied Boarding? Here’s What You’re Owed
If you’re bumped off a flight due to overbooking, you’re entitled to:
✔ A refund or re-routing (your choice).
✔ Compensation (same as delays).
Key Exception: If you volunteered to give up your seat (e.g., for airline credit), you waive compensation rights.
How Airlines Try to Avoid Paying (And How to Fight Back)
Airlines often reject claims by citing:
❌ “Air traffic control delays” (We have the data to back you up).
How to Challenge Them:
- Check weather reports for the flight date.
- Use flight tracking tools (e.g., FlightRadar24) to verify the reason.
- Escalate to the UK CAA or use a claims firm like JetJustice.
How to Claim Step-by-Step
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Use JetJustice’s Free Calculator to confirm your flight qualifies.
Step 2: Gather Evidence
- Boarding pass & booking confirmation.
- Photos of airport delay boards.
- Airline emails/SMS about the disruption.
Step 3: Submit Your Claim
📧 Email or post in online forum or use JetJustice’s No-Win, No-Fee Service.
Sample Email Subject:
“EU261/UK261 Compensation Claim – [Your Flight Number]”
Step 4: Escalate If Denied
If the airline refuses, file a complaint with the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Brexit Changes: What’s Different Now?
✔ UK261 replaced EU261 but kept the same rules.
✔ Compensation is now paid in GBP (not euros).
✔ Covers any flight starting in the UK
Common Myths Debunked
❌ “I booked via Expedia/Booking.com—I can’t claim.”
✅ FALSE! Your rights apply regardless of how you booked.
❌ “Budget airlines don’t pay compensation.”
✅ FALSE! Ryanair, easyJet, and others must comply.
Conclusion: Don’t Let Airlines Keep Your Money
Flight delays and cancellations are inconvenient, but you don’t have to accept them without compensation. Whether you’re owed £220 or £520, the law is on your side.
🚀 Start Your Claim in 2 Minutes
👉 Check Eligibility Now (No Win, No Fee)
