Flight delayed by a technical problem:how much compensation can you claim?
A routine technical fault does not normally release the airline from liability. If you arrive at least three hours late, you may claim €250 to €600 per passenger.
Eligibility depends on the route, the delay at the final destination, the exact origin of the fault and the measures taken by the airline.
Does a technical problem qualify for flight compensation?
Yes, in many cases. Most faults discovered during normal maintenance or linked to the routine operation of an aircraft are not extraordinary circumstances. A delay of at least three hours at your final destination may therefore qualify for compensation when EU rules cover the flight.
Three decisive questions
- Did you arrive at least three hours late?
- Is your journey covered by EU passenger rights?
- Was the fault inherent in the airline’s normal activity?
The phrase “technical problem” is not enough to reject a claim. If the airline relies on extraordinary circumstances, it must identify the event and show that the delay could not have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken.
For the general rules, read our main delayed flight guide.
What conditions apply after an aircraft technical fault?
The technical cause must be considered together with the final delay, route and booking.
At least three hours late
The threshold is measured at the final destination, not simply at departure.
A covered flight
Flights leaving the EU are covered; some flights into the EU are also covered when operated by an EU airline.
A confirmed reservation
You normally need a valid booking and must comply with the check-in deadline.
A non-extraordinary fault
The defect must relate to normal aircraft operation or maintenance rather than an exceptional external event.
On a single booking with connections, the delay is assessed at the final destination. See our missed connection guide.
When is a technical fault extraordinary?
An unexpected fault is not automatically extraordinary. Its nature and origin matter.
Routine operational fault
Component failure, defect found during maintenance, unexpected repair or inadequate maintenance.
Internal operational issue
No spare part available, delayed maintenance, no replacement aircraft or disrupted rotation.
Exceptional external event
A hidden manufacturing defect officially revealed by the manufacturer or an authority, sabotage or terrorism.
Reasons that need a precise explanation
Learn more about extraordinary circumstances.
How much can you claim for a technical delay?
The fixed amount depends on flight distance, not the ticket price or repair cost.
Per passenger when arrival is delayed by at least three hours.
Per passenger when all conditions are met.
A reduction to €300 may apply to certain delays between three and four hours.
Is a technical delay measured at departure or arrival?
Fixed compensation depends on the delay at your final destination. A four-hour departure delay can result in an arrival delay below three hours, while a missed connection may increase the final delay.
See our detailed guide to three-hour flight delay compensation.
What food, hotel or refund can you request during repairs?
Care while waiting is separate from compensation and depends on the departure delay and flight distance.
Food and drinks
The airline should provide reasonable refreshments and meals once the relevant threshold is reached.
Communications
You can request two telephone calls, emails or other communications free of charge.
Hotel and transfer
If departure is postponed until the next day, necessary accommodation and transfers should be covered.
Refund after five hours
After a five-hour departure delay, you can abandon the journey and request reimbursement of the relevant ticket.
If no care is provided, keep itemised receipts for necessary and reasonable expenses.
How can you prove the delay was caused by a technical problem?
Ask for written confirmation of the reason and keep everything that identifies the flight and establishes the final delay.
Useful documents
Do not sign a broad waiver in exchange for a meal voucher or travel credit. Care does not replace any compensation that may be due.
Common situations after an aircraft fault
A component must be replaced
An unexpected repair linked to normal aircraft operation is generally not extraordinary.
The replacement aircraft arrives late
Fleet organisation normally falls within the airline’s responsibility and may support a claim.
The manufacturer reveals a hidden defect
An officially disclosed hidden manufacturing defect may qualify as extraordinary.
A connection is missed
On a single booking, check the delay at the final destination and the cause of the first disruption.
The flight is eventually cancelled
The specific cancelled flight rights then apply, including refund or rerouting.
The airline mentions safety
A safety precaution does not automatically make the origin of the fault extraordinary.
How do you claim after a technical delay?
Identify the flight
Provide the date, flight number, airline and airports.
Measure the final delay
Compare scheduled and actual arrival at your final destination.
Document the fault
Attach announcements, messages and technical explanations.
Send the claim
Claim from the airline that actually operated the flight.
Find information for your airline
Frequently asked questions about technical flight delays
Is an unexpected technical fault extraordinary?+
Not automatically. A fault may be unexpected yet still be inherent in normal aircraft operation and within the airline’s control.
How much can I claim after a three-hour delay?+
Depending on distance, compensation may be €250, €400 or €600 per passenger, subject to the other conditions.
Does an engine problem qualify for compensation?+
Often yes when it relates to normal operation or maintenance, although its precise origin must be checked.
What if the flight is cancelled after several hours?+
Cancelled-flight rules apply, including refund or rerouting, care and possible compensation.
Must the airline prove extraordinary circumstances?+
Yes. It must prove the event, its link to the delay and the reasonable measures taken.
Can I recover food and hotel costs?+
If care was due but not provided, necessary and reasonable expenses may be claimed with receipts.
Find more answers in our FAQ.
Was your flight delayed by a technical fault?
Check whether you can claim up to €600 in compensation per passenger.
No upfront fee. A 30% fee including VAT applies only if your claim succeeds.