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UK261 vs EU261: which rules apply to your flight?
Updated 5 November 2026 · General information, not legal advice.
Quick answerThe CAA says UK261 covers flights leaving a UK airport on any airline, flights arriving at a UK airport on a UK or EU airline, and flights arriving at an EU airport on a UK airline. Flights leaving the EU may be covered by the EU's equivalent rules instead.
The short guide
| Your flight | Rules that may apply |
|---|---|
| Leaves a UK airport, any airline | UK261 |
| Arrives at a UK airport on a UK or EU airline | UK261 |
| Arrives at an EU airport on a UK airline | UK261 |
| Leaves an EU airport | EU261 may apply |
| Arrives in the UK on an airline that is not UK or EU | UK261 does not usually apply: check your rights under the airline's terms and the rules of the departure country |
This is a simplified summary. Always check the CAA and the airline's operating carrier for your exact flight.
Frequently asked questions
Is the compensation the same under EU261?
The structure is similar, but amounts are in euros. Check the rules that apply to your flight.
Sources and official bodies: CAA: delays and compensation · CAA: cancellations · CAA: resolving travel problems · GOV.UK. Reviewed 5 November 2026.