Are you entitled to compensation for a delayed flight ?
You may be eligible if you meet all the following conditions:
- Your flight arrived at least 3 hours late
- The flight departed from the EU or arrived in the EU on a European airline
- The delay was not due to extraordinary circumstances (e.g., storm, air traffic control strike, medical emergency)
Tip: The delay is calculated at the arrival gate, not at landing.
How Much Compensation Can You Receive?
Compensation is fixed and does not depend on the ticket price. It only depends on flight distance and arrival delay:
- €250: flights under 1,500 km with a delay of 3 hours or more
- €400: flights between 1,500 and 3,500 km with a delay of 3 hours or more
- €600: flights over 3,500 km (outside the EU) with a delay of 4 hours or more
Examples: Lyon → Barcelona (800 km), delayed 3h20 = €250
Paris → New York, delayed 5h = €600
How to Determine the Distance Between Two Airports ?
The distance used is the straight-line distance between the cities, not flight duration.
- Fly Claim automatically calculates this distance when analyzing your flight
- You can also use our free tool to find out the exact amount you’re entitled to
No need to calculate manually — Fly Claim does it for you!
Which Flights Are Covered by EU Regulation EC 261/2004 ?
Regulation EC 261/2004 applies if:
✓ Flight departs from an EU country, regardless of the airline
✓ Flight arrives in the EU on a European airline
✓ Individual or business bookings
✓ Tickets purchased directly or via an agency
Not applicable if:
✖ Arrival delay is less than 3 hours
✖ Flight operated outside the EU by a non-European airline (in some cases)
✖ Delay caused by extraordinary circumstances
Extraordinary Circumstances: When Compensation Is Not Due
Airlines may be exempt in cases such as:
- Extreme weather (storms, heavy fog)
- Strikes by non-airline staff (e.g., air traffic control)
- Security risks, political instability, medical emergencies
- Bird strikes, unexpected airport closures
⚠ Attention: Many airlines wrongly claim extraordinary circumstances. Fly-Claim reviews each case to contest these claims if needed.
Your Rights to Assistance During Delays
Even if compensation is not applicable, you are entitled to assistance for long delays. Depending on the delay and flight distance:
- Free meals and refreshments
- Two phone calls or emails
- Hotel accommodation and transport if the flight is postponed to the next day
This applies from 2 hours of waiting on short flights.
What If the Delay Exceeds 5 Hours ?
If your flight is delayed more than 5 hours, you can:
- Refuse the flight
- Request a full refund of your ticket
- Be re-routed for free to your initial departure point
This right is independent of EC 261 compensation.
Refund vs Compensation: What’s the Difference ?
● Refund: covers the ticket price if you choose not to travel
● Compensation: a fixed amount provided by law for delayed, cancelled, or overbooked flights
👉 In some cases, you can receive both!
Replacement Flight in a Lower Class: Your Rights
If the airline rebooks you in a lower class, they must refund a portion of your ticket:
- 30% for flights under 1,500 km
- 50% for flights between 1,500–3,500 km
- 75% for flights over 3,500 km
⚠ This refund is separate from EC 261 compensation.
What About Hotel or Activity Bookings?
If a delayed flight causes you to miss a hotel night, rental, or booked activity, EU regulation does not cover these costs. You can:
- Use your travel insurance or credit card coverage
- Submit a goodwill claim to the airline
- Use Fly Claim to assert your primary rights, which can strengthen your parallel claim
Fly-Claim Handles Everything With No Upfront Fees
Claiming compensation on your own can be complicated: delays, airline resistance, confusing procedures… Fly Claim manages everything from A to Z:
- Instant eligibility check
- Claim drafting and submission
- Follow-up with the airline
- No upfront fees — we only charge a commission if you are compensated
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long do I have to make a claim?
In France, the limitation period is 5 years from the flight date.
Can I claim for a group or business flight?
Yes, as long as the ticket is in your name. Even if your company paid, you are the passenger entitled to rights.
Can I be compensated if I accepted a voucher?
No. Airlines use this to avoid paying legal compensation. Fly Claim can check if you still have a recourse.
