Airline Compensation When Flights Are Delayed

What typically triggers an entitlement

Long delays on arrival, cancellations at short notice, and denied boarding due to overbooking are the common triggers where such schemes exist.

Compensation is usually a fixed amount banded by flight distance rather than related to ticket price. A cheap ticket on a long route can attract compensation exceeding the fare.

The delay is measured on arrival at the final destination, not departure. A flight leaving late but making up time may not qualify.

The extraordinary circumstances exception

Airlines are generally not liable where the cause was outside their control — severe weather, air traffic control restrictions, security incidents, strikes by third parties such as airport staff.

Technical faults have generally not been accepted as extraordinary, on the reasoning that maintenance is inherent to running an airline. Airlines nonetheless cite technical issues frequently, and it is worth challenging.

Strikes by the airline's own staff have been treated differently from external strikes in several rulings.

Assistance you are owed regardless of compensation

This is separate and frequently overlooked. Where delays exceed defined thresholds, airlines generally must provide meals and refreshments proportionate to the wait, and accommodation plus transfers where an overnight stay becomes necessary.

This duty applies even where compensation is not payable because the cause was extraordinary. Airlines sometimes imply otherwise.

If the airline fails to provide it, keep receipts for reasonable expenses and claim them back. Reasonable means sensible meals and a standard hotel, not luxury.

Rerouting and refunds

On cancellation you are usually entitled to choose between a refund and rerouting to your destination at the earliest opportunity.

Airlines commonly offer their own next available flight, which may be days later. Where the entitlement is to earliest opportunity, that can include another carrier, and it is worth asking explicitly.

Vouchers are frequently offered instead of cash refunds. Accepting one usually extinguishes the cash entitlement, so decline if you want money.

Claiming

Claim directly with the airline first, in writing, citing the flight number, date, and the length of delay on arrival.

Keep boarding passes, booking confirmations and any communications. Photograph departure boards showing the delay.

If the airline refuses or does not respond within a reasonable period, escalate to the relevant national enforcement body or alternative dispute resolution scheme.

Claims management companies will do this for a substantial percentage. The process is simple enough that most people can do it themselves and keep the whole amount.

Time limits

Limitation periods vary by country and can be as short as a couple of years or considerably longer. Claim promptly rather than assuming there is unlimited time.