Airline Passenger Rights • Compensation 2025

Flight Delay Compensation: What You’re Owed in 2025

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Flight delays cost travelers time, money, and missed connections. In 2025, passenger compensation rules have tightened in many regions, making it easier to claim what’s owed. This guide explains current laws, how to check eligibility, the claim process, and how to speed up payouts.

Table of Contents

1. Key compensation laws in 2025
2. When you qualify for payout
3. Step-by-step claim process
4. Typical payout amounts
5. Tips to get paid faster
6. Travel insurance that covers delays
7. FAQ

Key compensation laws in 2025

• EU Regulation 261/2004: Covers delays of 3+ hours for flights departing EU or operated by EU carriers. Compensation ranges €250–€600.
• UK Passenger Rights: UK maintains thresholds and amounts similar to EU261.
• US DOT Rules: Airlines must provide refunds for “significant” delays if the passenger refuses the new itinerary.
• Canada APPR: Payouts up to CAD $1,000 for large carriers when delays are within airline control.

Visual thresholds for common jurisdictions.

When you qualify for payout

Eligibility depends on delay length, cause, and jurisdiction. Mechanical issues, crew shortages, and overbooking often qualify. Weather, ATC restrictions, or security events usually do not.

Step-by-step claim process

1. Collect proof of delay (boarding pass, booking confirmation, flight status screenshots).
2. Identify governing law by route and carrier.
3. Submit the airline’s official claim form within the deadline.
4. Escalate to a national enforcement body if improperly denied.

Typical payout amounts

Region	Delay threshold	Payout range
EU / UK	3+ hrs	€250 – €600
Canada	3+ hrs	CAD $400 – $1,000
US	Varies	Refund of unused ticket portion

Tips to get paid faster

• Use automated claim services (example affiliate link).
• Quote the specific law in your claim.
• Attach all proof and avoid incomplete submissions.

Bring these documents to shorten payout time.

Travel insurance that covers delays

Some credit cards and standalone travel insurance policies pay cash for delays of 3+ hours.

• Compare travel insurance
• Check credit card coverage

FAQ

Can I claim if the airline blames “operational reasons”?

Yes, if within airline control and not extraordinary circumstances.

How long does payment take?

Average 4–8 weeks with complete documentation.

Is legal help worth it?

For large payouts or cross‑border cases, claim services can help.

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This article is for general information only. Always confirm with official regulations before claiming.