EU261 Compensation Explained: Get �250-�600 for Flight Delays [2026]
Updated: January 10, 2026 | By Emma Davies, EU261 Expert | 8 min read
Quick Answer
EU261 entitles you to �250-�600 compensation for cancelled flights or delays of 3+ hours on EU flights. This is IN ADDITION to your refund! Claims valid for 3 years. Need help claiming? 1-844-656-7300.
What Is EU261?
EU Regulation 261/2004 (called "EU261") is a European law that protects air passengers. It requires airlines to pay compensation when they cause:
- Flight cancellations (less than 14 days notice)
- Long delays (arriving 3+ hours late)
- Denied boarding (overbooking)
EU261 Compensation Amounts
| Flight Distance | Compensation | USD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Under 1,500 km | �250 | ~$270 |
| 1,500 - 3,500 km | �400 | ~$435 |
| Over 3,500 km | �600 | ~$650 |
Do I Qualify for EU261?
? You QUALIFY If:
- Flight departed from anywhere in EU/UK/Iceland/Norway/Switzerland
- OR flight arrived in EU on an EU-based airline
- AND flight was cancelled with less than 14 days notice
- OR arrived 3+ hours late at final destination
- AND the cause was within airline's control
? You DON'T Qualify If:
- "Extraordinary circumstances" (severe weather, strikes, terrorism)
- You were given 14+ days cancellation notice
- Delay was under 3 hours at arrival
- You caused the delay (late to gate, etc.)
Examples: Who Gets What
| Route | Situation | You Get |
|---|---|---|
| London ? New York | 5 hour delay | �600 |
| Paris ? Barcelona | Cancelled flight | �250 |
| New York ? Paris (Air France) | 4 hour delay | �600 |
| New York ? Paris (Delta) | 4 hour delay | ? $0 (not EU airline) |
Need Help with EU261 Claim?
We've recovered millions in EU261 compensation for travelers.
Call 1-844-656-730024/7 Support � Free Consultation
How to Claim EU261 Compensation
- Document everything - Save boarding pass, delay confirmation, receipts
- Submit claim to airline - Use their official form or write a letter
- Reference EU261 - Specifically cite EC Regulation 261/2004
- Be persistent - Airlines often reject valid claims initially
- Escalate if needed - National enforcement body or small claims court
FAQs
What is EU261?
EU261 is a European regulation requiring airlines to pay �250-�600 compensation for cancellations and long delays on qualifying flights.
Do I qualify for EU261?
You qualify if your flight departed from EU/UK (any airline) or arrived in EU/UK (on EU airline), was delayed 3+ hours or cancelled, and it wasn't due to "extraordinary circumstances."
How long do I have to claim?
In most EU countries, you have 2-6 years (varies by country). UK is 6 years. Don't wait - claim as soon as possible.
Is this in addition to my refund?
Yes! EU261 compensation is SEPARATE from your refund. You can get both the compensation AND a full refund if applicable.