EU261 Masterclass: Step-by-Step Guide to Claiming Flight Delay/Cancellation Compensation

Introduction to EU261 Regulation

EU Regulation 261/2004 establishes common rules on compensation and assistance to passengers for flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding within the European Union. This protection applies to:

• All flights departing from EU airports (regardless of airline)
• Flights arriving in the EU on EU carriers
• Compensation amounts: €250-€600 depending on flight distance

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

Check if your situation qualifies:
✔ Delay: 3+ hours at arrival
✔ Cancellation: Less than 14 days notice
✔ Denied Boarding: Overbooking situations
✖ Exceptions: Extraordinary circumstances (weather, strikes, security risks)

Step 2: Gather Required Documentation

• Boarding pass/ticket
• Flight details (number, date, route)
• Delay/cancellation proof (airport announcements, emails)
• Receipts for additional expenses (meals, accommodations)

Step 3: Submit Your Claim

Method 1: Direct Airline Claim

1. Visit airline’s website (look for “Claims” or “Customer Care”)
2. Complete compensation form
3. Attach supporting documents
4. Keep copy of submission

Method 2: Online Claim Services
Services like AirHelp or ClaimCompass can handle the process for a fee (typically 25-35% of compensation)

Step 4: Follow Up & Escalate if Needed

• Expected response time: 4-8 weeks
• No response? Send reminder after 30 days
• Rejected unfairly? Consider:
  • National Enforcement Body (list on EU website)
  • Small claims court (for EU residents)

Pro Tips for Success

• Always request written confirmation of delay reasons
• Claims can be filed up to 3 years after incident (varies by country)
• Airlines may offer vouchers – you have right to demand cash
• Keep records of all communications

Sample Claim Letter

[Your Name]
[Address]
[Date]

[Airline Name]
Customer Relations
[Address]

Subject: Compensation Claim Under EU Regulation 261/2004

Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to formally claim compensation for [Flight Number] on [Date] which arrived [X] hours late/was cancelled…

[Attach all supporting documents]

I look forward to your response within the statutory 30-day period…

Sincerely,
[Your Name]