How long do you have to claim flight compensation in the UK?
There is a time limit for claiming UK261 compensation, and it depends on where in the UK you bring the claim.
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The general rule
The limit is generally six years in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and five years in Scotland. It is counted from the date of the flight.
What you need to claim
Your booking reference or ticket, the flight number and date, and the names of the passengers are usually enough to start. Keep any emails from the airline about the delay or cancellation.
Frequently asked questions
My flight was four years ago. Can I still claim?
Generally yes, as long as you are inside the time limit that applies to you.
Does the clock stop if I complain to the airline?
Generally no. Complaining to the airline does not stop the legal time limit, so do not wait for a reply close to the deadline.
More guides
- Flight delay compensation in the UK: how UK261 works
- Flight cancellation compensation in the UK
- Denied boarding and overbooking: your UK261 rights
- Extraordinary circumstances under UK261: when airlines can refuse
- 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.