Is the flight delayed? Learn how long you must wait before receiving compensation, what information various airlines (such as EU carriers, Delta, United, etc.) must supply, and how to submit a claim without any problems.
What is Compensation for Flight Delays?
If your flight is considerably delayed, you may be eligible for flight delay compensation, which includes money or benefits. This can include payments for cash, meals, and hotel stays. Schedule conflicts, weather, mechanical concerns, and airline crew shortages can all result in delays. The rules of your particular plan will determine your eligibility and payout amounts, but your travel insurance policy is usually the source of compensation.
When Can You Get Compensation for Flight Delays?
You may be eligible for reimbursement in some circumstances, but not all delays will result in your money being returned. This is a brief guide:
✅ You May Be Eligible If… | ❌ You're Likely Not Eligible If… |
|---|---|
The delay was 3+ hours and caused by the airline | Delay was less than 3 hours |
Your flight is covered under EU261, UK261, or similar laws | Delay caused by bad weather or air traffic control |
The airline didn’t notify you within the required time | You voluntarily changed your flight |
It was a mechanical or staffing issue (airline’s fault) | Delay due to security threats or strikes outside airline control |
You arrived at your destination 3+ hours late | The issue was considered an extraordinary circumstance |
AirHelp+ on Trip.com: Your Fallback Option for Flight Delays
It's unpleasant to deal with a delayed flight, especially if you have to chase the airline for reimbursement. Trip.com's AirHelp+ can help with that; simply include it when making your reservation.
AirHelp+: What is it?
Trip.com offers a service called AirHelp+ that handles compensation claims on your behalf if your flight is canceled, delayed, or overbooked.
They take care of the legal procedures, handle the paperwork, and get in touch with the airline—all without you having to do a thing.
Contact Customer Support directly if you are unsure of the location of AirHelp. A representative will get in touch with you and require your email address to schedule your flight.
What do you stand to gain?
✅ Protection against flight cancellations, delays, oversales, etc.
✅ No need to contact the airline directly or submit paperwork.
✅ Just wait for your payment to come in.
📌 How does it operate?
To enable AirHelp+, check the "Add AirHelp+ service" box when purchasing your Trip.com ticket.
How long does it take to receive compensation for a flight delay?
Compensation is not always available for flight delays. Although this can vary by airline and location, compensation is typically offered when your flight is delayed by three hours or more upon arrival.
Typical guidelines:
Europe (EU Regulation 261/2004): If the airline causes a delay of three or more hours in your arrival, you will be compensated.
Canada's Air Passenger Protection Regulations state that airlines must pay passengers for delays longer than three hours.
United States: Although there is no federal law requiring reimbursement for delays, several airlines voluntarily provide vouchers.
Additional areas: Policies differ; check your travel insurance or airline.
How long does it take to receive reimbursement for a flight that is delayed? These are the pay rates particular to airlines. 👇
Typical Delay Thresholds and Compensation Rules
| Region / Airline | Required Delay Time | Compensation Range |
|---|---|---|
| Europe (EU261) | 3+ hours | €250–€600 (approx. USD $270–$650) |
| Canada (APPR) | 3+ hours (large carriers) | Up to CAD $1,000 (≈ USD $730) |
| USA (DOT) | Varies (no law) | Airlines may offer travel credit or vouchers |
| UK (Post-Brexit) | 3+ hours | Up to £520 (≈ USD $660) |
| Other Regions | Varies | Check your airline policy or insurance |
When Does Compensation Apply?
- ✅ Applies: Airline issues (e.g., mechanical failure, crew shortage, scheduling errors)
- ❌ Not eligible: Weather, strikes, airport closures, or security threats ("extraordinary circumstances")
Ways to File for Compensation for Flight Delays
The procedures listed below can help you get the money you're entitled to if your flight was delayed for a sufficient amount of time:
| Step | What to Do | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Check Eligibility | Was your flight delayed 3+ hours? | Applies for most EU/Canada rules. Not valid for weather or strikes. |
| 2. Gather Proof | Collect all documents | Boarding pass, delay confirmation, receipts for food or lodging. |
| 3. Contact Airline | File a claim | Use airline’s official website or contact form. |
| 4. Submit Details | Include evidence | Attach receipts, timelines, and explain the delay. |
| 5. Wait for Response | Follow up if needed | Claims may take days to weeks to process. |
| 6. Escalate if Denied | Use legal services or compensation tools | Try AirHelp, Compensair, or contact a flight rights agency. |
🛫 How to File for Compensation for Flight Delays
This is a straightforward, step-by-step approach to assist you in requesting reimbursement for a flight delay:
Step 1: Check if You Qualify
- EU/UK Flights (EU261 or UK law): Your flight must arrive three or more hours late, and the airline must be responsible for the delay, such as staff scheduling conflicts or mechanical problems.
- Verify your travel insurance policy. Most only cover specified reasons (e.g., weather, strikes, missing connections) for delays of 6 to 12 hours or more.
- U.S. Flights: Legally, airlines are exempt from having to reimburse passengers for delays in cash. You can, however, ask for rebooking, hotel stays, or meal coupons; just be firm but kind.
Step 2: Gather All Necessary Records
To bolster your argument, collect the following: Airline Confirmation of Delay
- At the airport, request a certificate or send an email to customer service. It ought to say:
- The flight number
- Total amount of time spent in delay
- Particular cause (for example, "technical malfunction")
Pass for Boarding 🎟
- shows that you were on the flight that was delayed.
- Receipts For cash outlays such as lodging, meals, and transportation (for reimbursement from insurance).
Your Policy for Travel Insurance 📑
- It's necessary to verify coverage and file a claim, particularly for delays unrelated to the airline.
Step 3: How to File a Claim for Flight Delay Compensation for Flights in the EU or the UK
✅Navigate to the compensation or delay claim form, which is frequently located under "Customer Rights" or "Flight Disruptions."
✅Complete the form by uploading the necessary evidence.
- certificate of delay
- The boarding pass
- Any invoices for costs
- Time of response: 30 days or less.
✅No response or unjust rejection? Your issue should be escalated to a national enforcement agency, such as the UK Civil Aviation Authority.
✈️ Comparison Table for Claims for Flight Delay Compensation
Region / Channel | How to Submit | Required Documents | Processing Time | Deadline to Submit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
EU / UK | Airline’s official website claim form (usually under “Passenger Rights”) | - Boarding pass - Delay certificate (with duration and reason) - Receipts | Within ~30 days | Up to 3 years |
Travel Insurance | Insurance provider’s online portal | - Delay certificate - Receipts (meals, hotels, transport) - Policy number | 2–6 weeks | Usually within 30–60 days |
U.S. Airlines | Online customer service or email | - Delay details - Request message (include hours delayed and reason) | A few days to weeks | No fixed deadline (2–3 months recommended) |
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FAQs about flight delay compensation
How long must my flight be delayed in order for me to receive reimbursement?
Generally, in order to be eligible, your flight must reach your ultimate destination three hours or more late because of airline-related problems. This is mandated under UK and EU legislation. It also holds true for bigger airlines in Canada.How much can I expect to be paid?
Flights from the EU to the UK: €250–€600, depending on distance Canada: Up to $1,000 in CAD USA: Although there is no legal requirement for compensation, you might receive hotel stays, food, or travel vouchers. Depending on your policy, insurance can range from $100 to $500 or reimburse costs.What kinds of delays are eligible for reimbursement?
Delays brought on by the airline (such as operational problems, crew shortages, or mechanical concerns) Generally speaking, unusual situations (such as extreme weather, airport closures, or strikes beyond the airline's control) do not qualify.