Flight delayed or cancelled? Know your rights to compensation

Many travellers never claim money they are owed after a long delay or a cancellation. Rules depend on where you fly and which airline you use, but it is worth checking every time.

European rules (EU261) — the strongest protection

EU261 covers flights departing from an EU airport on any airline, and flights arriving in the EU on an EU airline. The UK has very similar rules. If you arrive more than three hours late, your flight is cancelled at short notice, or you are denied boarding, you may receive:

• €250 for flights up to 1,500 km
• €400 for flights between 1,500 and 3,500 km
• €600 for longer flights

Airlines do not have to pay when the cause is an "extraordinary circumstance" such as severe weather, security threats or air-traffic-control restrictions — but technical faults and crew problems usually do not count as extraordinary.

Turkey and other countries

Turkey has its own passenger rights regulation (SHY-YOLCU) covering flights from Turkish airports and Turkish airlines, including cancellations, denied boarding and care during long delays. Other countries have their own rules. A claim service can tell you which rules apply to your flight.

Right to care

During long delays airlines often have to provide meals, drinks, and a hotel if you must stay overnight. Keep receipts for anything you buy.

What to keep

• Booking confirmation and boarding pass
• Any message from the airline about the delay or cancellation
• Receipts for food, transport or hotel
• Photos of the departure board showing the delay

Claim services

Services such as AirHelp and Compensair check your flight for free, deal with the airline for you and only take a percentage of the compensation if they win. You can also claim directly with the airline yourself.