Passenger Rights for Flight Delays: What You Need to Know

Elena Petrova
February 18, 2026
Reviewed by Marcus Chen

Key Takeaways

EU261: 3+ hours delay = up to €600 compensation
US DOT: automatic refunds for significant delays
US DOT: automatic refunds for significant delays
Montreal Convention: up to ~€5,800 for provable losses
Airlines can't contract out of these rights
When your flight is delayed, you have more rights than you probably realize. From free meals to hundreds of euros in compensation, the law is firmly on your side. This guide covers passenger rights across all major jurisdictions — EU, US, UK, and international.
Did you know?
Airlines are required to inform passengers of their rights during disruptions. Most don't — which is why 95% of eligible compensation goes unclaimed.

Your Right to Care During Delays

Under EU261, airlines must provide care during delays: meals and refreshments after 2-4 hours (depending on distance), two phone calls/emails, and hotel + transport if overnight.

In the US, tarmac delays over 2 hours require food and water. Gate delays have fewer requirements.

Your Right to Compensation

EU261: €250-€600 for delays of 3+ hours at arrival. The amount is based on distance, not delay length.

US DOT: automatic refunds for 'significant' delays. No fixed compensation amounts.

Montreal Convention: up to ~€5,800 for provable financial losses on international flights.

Your Right to a Refund

After 5 hours (EU) or a 'significant' delay (US), you can abandon your journey and demand a full refund plus a return flight to your origin.

Airlines must offer cash refunds, not just vouchers or credits.

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Article sources

Gyro writers are subject matter experts in passenger rights who use primary, trustworthy sources to inform their work, including EU regulations, government publications, court rulings, and airline policies. All content is fact-checked for accuracy, timeliness, and relevance.

  1. EU Regulation EC 261/2004
  2. US DOT — Passenger rights during delays
Elena Petrova
Content Quality Lead at Gyro
Elena Petrova is a passenger rights specialist with expertise in EU261 regulations, airline policies, and compensation claims.
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