When do I receive flight delay compensation?

Based on the European Regulation No. 261/2004, passenger compensation for flight delays is calculated based on the distance of the flight. All flights that are delayed 3 or over 3 hours, and qualify under the current regulation, are entitled to full compensation. Here is an explanation of the flight delay compensation? plan, calculated based on flight distance:

• Short distance flight delays – up to 1500km – Passengers are due €250 compensation
• Medium distance flight delays – between 1500km and 3500km – Passengers are due €400 compensation
• Long distance flight delays – over 3500km – Passengers are due €600 compensation

Note: The cost of the ticket has no relevance to the total amount of compensation, and as such you will be able to claim on flights with low-cost airlines. It is also possible to claim on flights as far back as 6 years. However, for your claim to be eligible for compensation, the flight must depart within the EU or, if it lands in the EU the airline must have its headquarters in the EU.

What counts as arrival time?

It is important to remember that delays are calculated based on the time of arrival, and not the time of departure. But, what exactly defines a flight’s “arrival time”?

In September 2014, the European Court of Justice (case) defined „arrival time“ as the moment when the aircraft reaches its final destination and at least one of its doors opens. This is based on the assumption that this is the moment the passengers are permitted to disembark.