Delayed flight — how to get compensation under EU261

When does a delay count as a major delay?

Under EU261, it’s mainly the arrival time that matters. You may be entitled to compensation when you:

• arrive 3 hours or more after the scheduled time
• miss connections and reach your final destination significantly late
• wait for a long time without reasonable assistance from the airline

Shorter delays usually don’t qualify for compensation, but may still give you a right to meals, drinks or rebooking. We help you assess what applies in your case.

How much can you receive for a delay?

Compensation levels for major delays are similar to cancellations and depend on the flight distance:

• up to €250 for shorter flights (approx. 0–1,500 km)
• up to €400 for mid-distance flights within the EU or up to 3,500 km
• up to €600 for longer international flights

In some cases, amounts may be reduced if the airline rebooks you and you still arrive with a relatively small delay. That’s something we calculate for you.

Your rights while you wait

In addition to financial compensation, longer delays may give you a right to:

• meals and refreshments in a reasonable amount
• two free phone calls or messages
• hotel accommodation if you have to stay overnight
• transport between the airport and the hotel
• rebooking to a later departure, or a refund in some cases

Always keep receipts — you can often claim reimbursement for necessary expenses afterwards if the airline didn’t assist you at the airport.

When can the airline avoid paying compensation?

In some situations, the airline may cite “extraordinary circumstances” and deny compensation, for example:

• severe weather or natural disasters
• airport closures or airspace restrictions
• security threats or events outside the airline’s control

Technical faults, staff shortages or planning mistakes are usually not valid reasons to deny compensation. Many passengers get rejected the first time — that’s where we can help you escalate.

Examples: when you may be entitled to compensation

• Your flight from Stockholm to Barcelona lands 3 hours and 45 minutes late — you may be entitled to compensation.
• You miss your long-haul connection due to a delay on the first leg and reach your final destination more than 3 hours late — the whole journey may be covered.
• The flight is delayed 4 hours due to a technical fault — often compensable.

Want to learn more about the rules?

On the page Your rights you’ll find a broader overview of EU261 and what applies to cancellations, overbooking and other situations.

You can also check our FAQ for short answers to common questions.