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UK261 flight delay compensation: the amounts and who qualifies
Updated 5 November 2026 · General information, not legal advice.
The amounts (per passenger)
| Flight distance | 3 to 4 hours late | More than 4 hours late |
|---|---|---|
| Under 1,500 km (for example Glasgow to Amsterdam) | £220 | £220 |
| 1,500 to 3,500 km (for example East Midlands to Marrakesh) | £350 | £350 |
| Over 3,500 km (for example London to New York) | £260 | £520 |
Distance is measured in a straight line between airports (the great circle route), not the route flown. The amounts are per passenger, so a family of four can claim four times the amount if all of them qualify.
Delay compensation calculator
Based on the UK Civil Aviation Authority's published amounts. A guide only: whether you qualify depends on the cause of the delay and where you flew.
Which flights are covered
The CAA says UK261 covers flights that leave a UK airport on any airline, flights that arrive at a UK airport on a UK or EU airline, and flights that arrive at an EU airport on a UK airline. Flights leaving the EU may be covered by the EU's rules instead: see UK261 vs EU261.
How the delay is measured
It is measured when you reach your final destination, not when you took off. If you missed a connection on a single booking, the delay to your final arrival is what counts. Keep your boarding passes and booking confirmation.
Frequently asked questions
Is compensation per person?
Yes. The amounts are per passenger, so a family of four can claim four times the amount if all of them qualify.
Does the ticket price matter?
No. The CAA says the amounts are fixed and not linked to what you paid.
What if I was under three hours late?
No compensation is due under UK261, but you may be able to claim reasonable expenses such as food while you waited.
Sources and official bodies: CAA: delays and compensation · CAA: cancellations · CAA: resolving travel problems · GOV.UK. Reviewed 5 November 2026.