Flight delayed or cancelled? What you're owed
Your rights depend on where you're flying and which airline. Here are the two rule sets most travelers run into, in plain English.
United States: automatic cash refunds
Under the US Department of Transportation's refund rule (in force since October 2024), you're entitled to a cash refund, not just a credit, if the airline cancels your flight or makes a significant change and you choose not to travel. A significant change includes a departure or arrival change of 3+ hours domestically or 6+ hours internationally, a change of airport, or a downgrade in class. Refunds should go back to your original payment method, generally within 7 business days for card purchases.
Europe: EU261 compensation
EU Regulation 261/2004 applies to flights departing an EU airport (any airline) and flights into the EU on an EU airline. If you arrive 3+ hours late, or the flight is cancelled with less than 14 days' notice, you may be owed fixed compensation unless the cause was "extraordinary circumstances" (such as severe weather or air traffic control strikes):
| Flight distance | Compensation |
|---|---|
| Up to 1,500 km | €250 |
| 1,500 to 3,500 km (and intra-EU over 1,500 km) | €400 |
| Over 3,500 km | €600 (can be reduced by 50% if rerouted and arriving 3 to 4 hours late) |
You're also entitled to meals and, for overnight delays, a hotel and transfers. The UK has an equivalent rule (UK261) with amounts in pounds.
How to claim, step by step
- Screenshot the delay or cancellation notice and keep boarding passes and receipts.
- Ask the gate agent for the stated reason for the delay. It matters for EU261.
- Submit the claim directly through the airline's website. It's free. Claim companies take a cut, often 25% to 35%.
- If refused, escalate: in the US file a complaint with the DOT; in the EU go to the national enforcement body of the country where it happened.
- Paid for the trip with a travel card? Check its trip delay benefit too. It can cover hotels and meals the airline won't.
Avoid it next time
Morning flights are less exposed to knock-on delays, nonstop routes remove connection risk, and travel insurance or a card with trip delay coverage fills the gaps.
FAQ
Do US airlines have to pay compensation for delays?
US law requires refunds for cancellations and significant changes if you choose not to travel, but not extra cash compensation for delays. Some airlines offer meals or hotels voluntarily.
How much is EU261 compensation?
€250, €400 or €600 depending on flight distance, for arrival delays of 3+ hours or late-notice cancellations not caused by extraordinary circumstances.
How long do airlines have to refund me in the US?
Under DOT rules, generally 7 business days for credit card purchases and 20 calendar days for other payment methods.
Should I use a flight compensation company?
You can claim directly with the airline for free. Companies charge a share of the payout, often 25% to 35%, but handle disputes for you.