Technical Fault Flight Delay — Can You Claim Compensation?
A technical fault is one of the most common reasons airlines give for a delay — and one of the most commonly claimable. Despite how airlines often present it, the courts have been clear that routine technical problems are part of the normal business of running an airline, not an extraordinary circumstance. That means a technical-fault delay is usually compensable.
This guide explains when a technical fault qualifies, the case law behind it, and what to do if the airline refuses. Check your likely payout with the compensation calculator.
Do Technical Faults Qualify?
The General Rule
In most cases yes — technical faults are normally claimable:
- Routine technical and mechanical faults are NOT extraordinary
- Component failures and general wear and tear are claimable
- Software and system glitches are claimable
- The airline is responsible for maintaining its aircraft
How Much You Could Claim
Compensation by Distance
If the delay is the airline’s responsibility, amounts are fixed per passenger:
- £220 — short-haul, up to 1,500 km
- £350 — medium-haul, 1,500 to 3,500 km
- £520 — long-haul, over 3,500 km
- You must arrive at your final destination 3+ hours late
What the Courts Decided
KLM v van der Lans (2015)
The leading case is clear:
- The European Court held technical problems are not extraordinary
- Early failure of an aircraft component is not extraordinary either
- The logic: dealing with unexpected faults is inherent in running an airline
- Only a hidden manufacturing defect across a fleet, or sabotage, may qualify
- Even a lightning strike, which aircraft are built to withstand, usually doesn’t qualify
What to Do
Your Steps
If a technical fault delayed you 3+ hours:
- Note the reason the airline gave and your arrival time
- Submit a claim — see how to claim
- If they call it extraordinary, challenge it
- Cite KLM v van der Lans if they refuse
Common Questions
The airline says the fault was unforeseeable. Does that change anything?
Generally no. The courts have held that unexpected technical faults are exactly what airlines must manage as part of normal operations — the fact a specific fault wasn’t predicted doesn’t make it extraordinary. Unless it stems from a hidden manufacturing defect identified across the fleet or deliberate sabotage, an unforeseeable technical fault is still normally claimable.
What about a fault caused by a bird strike?
That’s different. A bird strike is treated as an external event outside the airline’s control, so the resulting damage is usually extraordinary and not compensable. The distinction is that the fault was caused by something external, rather than arising from the aircraft’s own components.
The plane needed a part that wasn’t in stock. Still claimable?
Usually yes. Spare-parts logistics and maintenance planning are part of running an airline. A delay because the airline didn’t have a part available is generally its responsibility, not an extraordinary circumstance.
Related Guides
Bird Strike Flight Delay Compensation
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.
