Flight delay compensation: your rights under EU261

For delays or cancellations within the EU you often have more rights than you think, thanks to regulation EU261.

When you're entitled to compensation

Roughly, when you arrive more than 3 hours late due to the airline:

• Short haul (<1500 km): €250.
• Medium haul: €400.
• Long haul (>3500 km): €600.

The same usually applies to last-minute cancellations and denied boarding (overbooking).

When you're not

"Extraordinary circumstances" (extreme weather, strikes outside the airline) void compensation — but you keep the right to care (food, hotel) and a refund.

What to do

• Keep your boarding pass and proof of delay.
• Ask for the reason in writing.
• File your claim with the airline (or via a claim service).

FAQ

Does this apply to budget airlines?

Yes — EU261 covers all flights departing the EU and EU airlines flying into the EU.