When does a delayed flight qualify for compensation?
In general, you may be entitled to compensation if your final arrival is delayed by 3 hours or more, and the cause is not an extraordinary circumstance. The regulation typically applies to flights departing from the EU (any airline), or arriving in the EU with an EU-based airline.
Compensation amounts
The amount mainly depends on flight distance.
Right to care during the wait
Depending on the waiting time, the airline may have to provide meals, refreshments, communications and accommodation (with transport).
At the airport
Meals/refreshments + the ability to communicate (emails/calls).
If the wait extends
Hotel + transport when necessary.
Extraordinary circumstances
The airline may refuse compensation if the delay was caused by extraordinary circumstances (depending on context and evidence).
Often extraordinary
- Severe weather
- ATC restrictions (air traffic control)
- Security risks / emergencies
Often NOT extraordinary
- “Routine” technical issues
- Internal organization / rotations
- Staffing issues (case-dependent)
Documents to prepare
To speed up processing, prepare:
How to claim
- Enter your flight details and what happened.
- Eligibility check + case preparation.
- Contact / negotiation with the airline.
- Payout of compensation if accepted.
FAQ
From how many hours of delay can I get compensation?
In general, from 3 hours delay at the final destination (subject to EC 261/2004 conditions).
Is departure delay enough?
No. What matters is the delay on arrival at the final destination.