How to Claim Flight Delay Compensation — UK Step-by-Step
Claiming flight delay compensation under UK261 is more straightforward than most airlines make it look. You can claim directly and for free, and for a clear-cut delay that is often the best route because you keep the full amount. The key is submitting the right evidence and knowing what to do if the airline drags its feet or refuses.
This guide walks through the whole process — checking eligibility, gathering evidence, submitting, and escalating. Start by confirming what you’re owed with our compensation calculator.
Before You Claim
Check You’re Eligible
You can usually claim if:
- You arrived at your final destination 3+ hours late
- The flight departed the UK, or arrived in the UK on a UK/EU airline
- The delay was within the airline’s control — not extraordinary circumstances
- The flight was within the last 6 years (5 in Scotland)
Gather Your Evidence
Collect these before you submit:
- Booking reference and ticket
- Boarding passes for every leg
- Actual arrival time at your final destination (doors open)
- Any delay notification, email or reason given
- Receipts for food or accommodation you paid for
Making the Claim
Submit to the Airline
Claim against the operating airline, not the one you booked with:
- Use the airline’s online claim form or write to them
- State the flight number, date, delay length and amount owed
- Attach your evidence
- Keep a copy of everything
What to Expect
After you submit:
- Airlines typically respond within 30 days
- They may accept, reject, or ask for more detail
- If they reject, challenge it
- If they go silent, see airline not responding
If the Airline Refuses or Ignores You
Escalation Routes
You have options beyond the airline:
- A CAA-approved ADR scheme — free, binding on the airline
- The Small Claims Court — modest fee, usually recoverable
- A no win no fee claims company — takes a cut, does the work
Common Questions About Claiming
Do I need to pay anyone to claim?
No. You can claim directly with the airline for free and keep 100% of the compensation. Claims companies and “no win no fee” firms are entirely optional — they take a percentage in exchange for handling the work. For a straightforward delay, claiming yourself is usually the better-value choice; for a disputed or ignored claim, a firm or ADR scheme can be worth it.
Which airline do I claim against on a connecting flight?
You claim against the operating carrier — the airline that actually ran the disrupted flight — even if you booked through someone else. On a connecting journey, your compensation is judged on your arrival time at the final destination, not at the connection point.
What if I booked through a travel agent or website?
The compensation claim is still against the operating airline, not the agent. The agent handled your booking, but UK261 obligations sit with the carrier that operated the flight. Direct your claim to the airline.
How long does it take to get paid?
If the airline accepts, payment usually follows within a few weeks. If it disputes the claim, escalation through an ADR scheme typically takes one to three months, and court longer. Acting promptly and submitting complete evidence is the fastest path.
Related Guides
Flight Delay Compensation Calculator
Am I Eligible for Flight Delay Compensation?
Extraordinary Circumstances Explained
How to Claim Flight Delay Compensation
Check If You Could Claim Compensation For Your Delayed Flight
If your flight was delayed by 3 hours or more, you may be entitled to compensation. Start a free flight delay claim check in minutes — no upfront cost. No win, no fee if your claim is accepted.
