Passenger Rights · UK261 · EU261 · US DOT
Know Your Rights
Ground stops and ATC disruptions can qualify for passenger compensation. Here is what you are owed, and how to claim it.
UK261 · United Kingdom
United Kingdom Passenger Rights
UK261 (post-Brexit equivalent of EU Reg 261/2004) applies to flights departing from a UK airport, or arriving into the UK on a UK or EU carrier.
Compensation Amounts
Under 1,500 km
£220
1,500 – 3,500 km
£350
Over 3,500 km
£520
When You Qualify
- ›Flight delayed by 3+ hours at arrival
- ›Flight cancelled with less than 14 days' notice
- ›Cause is within the airline's control (staffing, technical)
- ›Note: ATC restrictions are often classed as extraordinary circumstances - no fixed compensation, but care duties always apply
Right to Care (Always Applies)
- ›Meals and refreshments for delays of 2+ hours
- ›Hotel accommodation if overnight stay required
- ›Transport to and from the hotel
- ›2 free phone calls or emails
Claims must be filed within 6 years (England/Wales) or 5 years (Scotland).
EU261 · European Union
European Union Passenger Rights
EU Regulation 261/2004 applies to flights departing from an EU airport, or arriving into the EU on an EU carrier.
Compensation Amounts
Under 1,500 km
€250
1,500 – 3,500 km
€400
Over 3,500 km
€600
When You Qualify
- ›Flight delayed by 3+ hours at arrival
- ›Flight cancelled with less than 14 days' notice
- ›Denied boarding due to overbooking
- ›Same extraordinary circumstances rule applies as UK261
Right to Care (Always Applies)
- ›Meals and refreshments for delays of 2+ hours
- ›Hotel accommodation if overnight stay required
- ›Transport to and from the hotel
- ›2 free phone calls or emails
Claims must be filed within 3 years in most EU countries.
US DOT · United States
US Department of Transportation Rules
The US has weaker passenger protections than the UK/EU. Compensation is mandated mainly in overbooking situations.
- ›Ground stops due to FAA orders: airlines have no compensation obligation
- ›Tarmac delays over 3 hours (domestic) / 4 hours (international): airlines must allow deplaning
- ›Involuntary bumping (oversales): up to 4× the one-way fare, max $1,550
- ›Always check your airline's contract of carriage for travel voucher policies
Free Eligibility Check
Not sure if you qualify?
AirHelp checks eligibility free. No win, no fee - they take a percentage only if your claim succeeds.
Check with AirHelp →Affiliate link - AirStatus may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Airport Transfer
Stranded at the airport?
Under EU261 you're owed transport to your hotel. Pre-book a fixed-price transfer - no surge pricing.
Book transfer →Affiliate link - AirStatus may earn a commission at no cost to you.
General information only - not legal advice. Always verify with your airline and a qualified adviser.