Denied boarding and overbooking: your UK261 rights
If an airline refuses to let you board a flight against your will, for example because it is overbooked, UK261 may entitle you to fixed compensation as well as a refund or re-routing.
No win, no fee: 25% of the compensation, VAT included, no other fees, only if we win your claim. FlightClaimHQ is a trading name of TETRIS GROUP LLC.
When does it apply?
Denied boarding applies when you have a confirmed reservation, you checked in on time and the airline refuses boarding. It does not apply where there are reasonable grounds, such as health, safety or security reasons, or inadequate travel documents.
How much can you claim?
Compensation is £220, £350 or £520 per passenger depending on distance, in addition to the right to choose between a refund and re-routing.
Volunteers
Airlines usually first ask for volunteers to give up their seat in exchange for a benefit. If you volunteer, the benefit you agree is separate from your statutory rights, so check what you accept before agreeing.
Frequently asked questions
Does it apply if I arrived late at the gate?
If you did not arrive for check-in or boarding within the times set by the airline, it is generally not treated as denied boarding.
Do I still get a refund?
You are generally entitled to choose between a refund and re-routing in addition to compensation.
More guides
- Flight delay compensation in the UK: how UK261 works
- Flight cancellation compensation in the UK
- Extraordinary circumstances under UK261: when airlines can refuse
- How long do you have to claim flight compensation in the UK?
- Strikes and flight compensation in the UK: what you can claim
- Missed connecting flight: can you claim UK261 compensation?
- UK261 or EU261? Which rules apply to your flight after Brexit
- How to claim flight compensation in the UK step by step
- Airline refused your flight compensation? What to do next
- Delayed at the airport: meals, hotel and your right to care
Compensation by airline · Compensation by UK airport
This page is general information about UK261 and is not legal advice. Amounts and conditions depend on the facts of your flight.