Flight delay compensation in the UK: how UK261 works

How much is the compensation?

The amount is fixed per passenger and depends on flight distance: £220 for flights up to 1,500 km, £350 for flights between 1,500 and 3,500 km (and for longer flights within the UK and EU), and £520 for flights over 3,500 km.

If the airline gets you to your destination with a smaller delay on a replacement flight, the amount can be reduced by half.

Which flights are covered?

UK261 covers flights departing from a UK airport with any airline, and flights arriving in the UK from abroad when the airline is a UK carrier.

Flights departing from the EU towards the UK are generally covered by the EU version of the rules (EU261) instead.

What counts as the delay?

What matters is the time you arrive at your final destination compared with the scheduled arrival time, not the departure delay. The measure is generally the moment one of the aircraft doors opens.

When can the airline refuse?

An airline does not have to pay compensation if the delay was caused by extraordinary circumstances outside its control, such as severe weather or air traffic control strikes. A technical fault found during routine maintenance is generally not treated as extraordinary. The airline has to show the circumstances applied.

Do I get compensation for a 2 hour delay?

Generally no. Fixed compensation under UK261 applies when you arrive at your final destination three hours or more late. You may still be entitled to care such as meals and refreshments while you wait.

Does the price of my ticket affect the amount?

No. The amount is fixed per passenger and depends only on the distance of the flight.

Can children claim?

Yes. Every passenger on the booking with a confirmed reservation can claim, including children.

How long do I have to claim?

Generally six years in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and five years in Scotland, counted from the date of the flight.