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The EU261 Compensation Table
| Route Distance | Delay Required | Payout |
|---|---|---|
| Short-haul (under 1,500 km) | 3+ hours | €250 |
| Medium-haul (1,500–3,500 km) | 3+ hours | €400 |
| Long-haul (3,500+ km) | 3–4 hours | €300 |
| Long-haul (3,500+ km) | 4+ hours | €600 |
Real-World Examples
London to Barcelona (1,138 km) — Delayed 4 hours?
Under 1,500 km, so €250 per passenger. A couple travelling together = €500.
London to Dubai (5,476 km) — Delayed 5 hours?
Over 3,500 km and over 4 hours = €600 per passenger. A family of four = €2,400.
Manchester to Tenerife (2,885 km) — Cancelled with 10 days' notice?
Between 1,500–3,500 km, cancelled within 14 days = €400 per passenger plus full refund or rebooking.
The delay is measured at arrival, not departure. If your plane left 4 hours late but made up time in the air and landed only 2 hours 50 minutes late, you don't qualify. The clock stops when the aircraft doors open at your destination.
What About the Exchange Rate?
Compensation is set in euros but UK airlines typically pay in pounds at the current exchange rate. Some airlines will try to pay in vouchers — you're legally entitled to demand cash (bank transfer or cheque) instead.
Can the Airline Reduce the Amount?
Yes — for long-haul delays between 3–4 hours, airlines can reduce the payout by 50%, bringing it down to €300. This is the only reduction the law allows.
Does Compensation Stack With Other Claims?
Yes. You can claim EU261 compensation and claim expenses for meals, transport and accommodation separately under the "right to care" provision. These are separate entitlements.
Find Out What You're Owed
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