Flight Delayed in the UK? Know Your Rights

chasingmemoriesco
2 days ago
3 min read

Know Your Rights: What Is UK261 and How Does It Protect You?

If you're flying to or from the United Kingdom, there's a little-known rule that could get you up to £520 when your flight is delayed, cancelled, or overbooked—and most airlines won't tell you about it unless you ask. It’s called UK261, and if you're planning international travel, this regulation is a must-know.

What Is UK261?

UK261 is the United Kingdom’s passenger protection regulation that mirrors the European Union's EC 261. After Brexit, the UK retained the same rights under its own law, ensuring travelers are still protected against flight disruptions.

UK261 applies to:

Flights departing from the UK (regardless of airline)
Flights arriving in the UK on a UK or EU airline

It ensures passengers receive compensation, care, and refunds in certain cases of long delays, cancellations, and denied boarding.

🔗 Read the official UK261 regulation here (legislation.gov.uk)

When Are You Eligible?

You may be entitled to compensation if your flight:

Arrives at your final destination 3 or more hours late
Is cancelled within 14 days of departure
You’re denied boarding due to overbooking

To qualify, the disruption must be within the airline’s control (for example: technical issues, staffing problems, or late incoming aircraft). Events like severe weather or airport strikes are considered “extraordinary circumstances” and may be exempt.

How Much Compensation Can You Get?

Compensation depends on the distance of your flight and how long you're delayed at your final destination:

Flight Distance	Delay at Arrival	Compensation
Up to 1,500 km	3+ hours	£220
1,500–3,500 km	3+ hours	£350
Over 3,500 km	3–4 hours	£260
Over 3,500 km	4+ hours	£520

If your delay is 5+ hours, you are also entitled to:

A full refund of your unused ticket
A return flight to your original departure point (if applicable)

What If You’re Stranded at the Airport?

If you're delayed for 2 hours or more, the airline is also required to provide:

Meals and refreshments
Two free forms of communication (calls, emails)
Hotel accommodation (if overnight stay is needed)
Transportation between the airport and your hotel

Tip: If they don’t offer it, pay out of pocket and save your receipts—you can submit a claim later.

🚫 What Doesn't Qualify?

Airlines don’t have to pay compensation if the delay or cancellation was caused by extraordinary circumstances, including:

Extreme weather
Airport or air traffic control strikes
Political instability
Bird strikes

However, routine mechanical issues, late crew, or operational mismanagement do not qualify as extraordinary—so don’t be quick to assume you’re out of luck.

How to File a Claim

Gather documentation – boarding pass, delay notifications, and flight numbers.
Submit a claim directly with the airline (most have online claim forms).
If denied or ignored, escalate to the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) or consider using a passenger rights service or small claims process.

Don’t Want to Deal With the Airline? Let AirHelp Handle It

Filing a UK261 compensation claim can be overwhelming—especially if the airline pushes back or ignores your request. If you'd rather skip the hassle, AirHelp can do the work for you.

They’re one of the most trusted services for flight delay and cancellation claims. AirHelp checks your eligibility, submits the claim for you, and even takes the airline to court if needed. You only pay if they win—but it’s important to know they do take a fee:

35% commission for standard claims (including VAT)
50% total if legal action is required

✨ I recommend trying to file the claim yourself first so you can keep the full amount. But if that doesn’t work, AirHelp is a great backup to recover something instead of nothing.

👉 Click here to start your AirHelp claim

They’ll guide you through every step—and if you qualify, you could get up to £520 back in your pocket without lifting a finger (minus their commission of course).

Bottom Line

If your UK flight is delayed or cancelled, you might be entitled to cash compensation and assistance—but it’s up to you to ask for it. Understanding UK261 gives you the confidence and knowledge to stand up for your rights and avoid being left stranded.

Always keep records of your flight disruptions and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself—UK law is on your side.