How Long Does a Flight Compensation Claim Actually Take?

Stage 1 — Eligibility Check (Same Day)

Both AirHelp and Compensair run automated eligibility checks that take seconds. You'll know immediately if your flight qualifies and how much you're potentially owed.

Stage 2 — Claim Submission to the Airline (1–2 weeks)

Once you sign up with a service, they submit the formal claim to the airline on your behalf. Airlines are legally required to respond within a reasonable time — in practice, most respond within 6–8 weeks.

Stage 3a — Airline Accepts (4–12 weeks total)

If the airline accepts the claim, payment is processed and you receive your payout minus the service fee. Straightforward cases with cooperative airlines can be resolved in as little as 4 weeks from submission.

Stage 3b — Airline Disputes or Ignores (3–18 months)

1. 1Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) body — adds 3–6 months
2. 2Court action — adds another 6–12 months if needed

Budget airlines like Ryanair, Wizz Air and easyJet are more likely to drag this out.

Will I Have to Do Anything During the Process?

Minimal. Both services handle the entire process. You may occasionally be asked to sign a power of attorney for court proceedings, or provide supporting documents if the airline requests specific evidence.

What If I Need the Money Quickly?

Some compensation services offer advance payouts — a smaller amount paid immediately while they pursue the full claim. AirHelp offers this in certain markets. It's worth asking when you sign up if speed is a priority.