Can I Get Compensation for a Delayed Flight?
Compensation Guide
It depends on three things: where the flight departed from, which airline operated it, and how long the delay was at your final destination.
Under EU261, flights arriving 3+ hours late at the final destination qualify for compensation of €250-€600, depending on distance.
In the US, new DOT rules (2024) require automatic refunds for significant delays. The Montreal Convention covers international flights for provable losses.
Airlines often claim 'extraordinary circumstances' to avoid paying. But mechanical issues, crew problems, and operational delays are NOT extraordinary.
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.
It depends on three things: where the flight departed, which airline operated it, and the delay at your final destination. EU departures: EC261 applies. International: Montreal Convention. US domestic: DOT refund rights.
Under EU261: 3+ hours at arrival. Under US DOT: 'significant' delay (usually 3+ hours domestic, 6+ international). Montreal Convention: any delay with provable financial loss.
What if my flight was delayed but eventually arrived?
No. EC261 applies based on route and airline, not passenger nationality. US citizens flying from EU airports have the same rights as EU citizens.
You need to show: the flight details, the delay at arrival, and that the delay was within the airline's control. Gyro handles verification for you.
3 years in most EU countries. 6 years in the UK. 5 years in France and Spain. 2 years under Montreal Convention.
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