UK Passenger Rights After a Delay or Cancellation
Applies to flights departing the UK, and flights into the UK on UK or EU airlines.
Last checked: September 2026
How much can you claim
| Flight distance | Potential compensation |
|---|---|
| Up to 1,500 km | GBP 220 |
| 1,500 - 3,500 km | GBP 350 |
| Over 3,500 km | GBP 520 |
Amounts last checked: September 2026. Airlines update their processes often, so confirm against the official source below before you claim.
When it applies
- Cancellation at short notice without suitable rerouting
- Arrival three hours or more late at the final destination
- Involuntary denied boarding
When an airline can refuse
- Extraordinary circumstances, defined much as in the EU scheme
- Sufficient advance notice of a cancellation
- Rerouting within the permitted arrival window
Care while you wait
- Meals and refreshments proportionate to the delay
- Accommodation and transport where an overnight stay is needed
- Rerouting at the earliest opportunity, or a refund
Deadlines and escalation
In England and Wales, claims are generally subject to a six year limit, and five years in Scotland. Airline complaint procedures expect you to write much sooner.
Complain to the airline first. If unresolved, use the airline's alternative dispute resolution scheme, or the Civil Aviation Authority's passenger advice and complaints service.
This is general information, not legal advice. Rules change, and every situation is different. Always check the official airline or government information for your route before acting.