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Flight delay or cancellation compensation letter (UK261)

If your flight arrived 3 hours or more late, or was cancelled with less than 14 days' notice, you may be owed fixed compensation under UK261 (the UK's version of EU Regulation 261/2004). Answer a few questions and we check where you stand, then write a clear claim letter for you to send to the airline.

How much could you claim?

Flight distanceCompensation per passenger
Up to 1,500 km£220
1,500 to 3,500 km£350
Over 3,500 km£520 (£260 if you arrived 3 to 4 hours late)

Source: UK Civil Aviation Authority.

Which flights are covered?

Flights leaving a UK airport on any airline, and flights arriving in the UK on a UK or EU airline. The airline can refuse if the delay was caused by extraordinary circumstances, such as severe weather or air traffic control strikes. Technical faults usually don't count as extraordinary.

What if the airline says no?

If the airline refuses or doesn't reply within 8 weeks, you can take it to its dispute scheme (ADR) for free. See which scheme each airline uses.

Write my letter now

One-off price, no subscription: £2.99 for most letters, £4.99 for a flight claim letter, or £9.99 with the escalation letter. The data broker removal pack and the letter before claim pack are £4.99 each. Prices include VAT. Print and post is coming soon.

Common questions

How late does my flight need to be?

You need to arrive at your final destination 3 hours or more late.

Is the compensation per person?

Yes. The amount is per passenger, including children with their own seat.

What if I was told about a cancellation early?

If you were told 14 days or more before departure, compensation usually doesn't apply, but you are still owed a refund or a new flight.

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