Claim compensation for a delayed British Airways flight
Flight delays are frustrating, but you might be entitled to compensation if your British Airways flight was significantly late. European and UK laws protect passengers, ensuring you're reimbursed for the inconvenience. Don't let airlines avoid their responsibilities, claim what's rightfully yours.
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Under UK261 and EU261, you are entitled to compensation if your British Airways flight was delayed by three hours or more on arrival, unless the delay was due to 'extraordinary circumstances' outside the airline's control. This applies to flights departing from the UK/EU, or arriving in the UK/EU on a UK/EU airline. The compensation amount depends on the flight distance and the length of the delay, ranging from £220 (€250) to £520 (€600) per passenger.
Step by step
- 1Confirm your eligibility: Check if your flight was delayed by three hours or more on arrival and if it falls under UK261/EU261 rules (e.g. departed from UK/EU or arrived in UK/EU on BA).
- 2Gather your flight details: Collect your booking reference, flight number, departure and arrival airports, scheduled and actual arrival times, and any communication from British Airways about the delay.
- 3Submit a claim directly to British Airways: Use their official online compensation claim form. Be clear, concise, and include all relevant flight information and a copy of your boarding pass.
- 4Escalate if necessary: If British Airways rejects your claim or doesn't respond within a reasonable timeframe (usually 28 days), you can escalate your complaint to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) or pursue it via the small claims court (Money Claim Online).
What they'll say, and your comeback
“The delay was due to extraordinary circumstances.”
Comeback, I understand that. However, routine technical faults or operational issues are generally not considered 'extraordinary circumstances' under UK261/EU261. Please provide specific evidence to support this claim.
“You accepted a voucher for the delay.”
Comeback, Accepting a voucher for incidental expenses or as a goodwill gesture does not waive my right to statutory compensation under UK261/EU261 for a significant delay. I am still entitled to the compensation amount.
“Your flight was only delayed by X hours, which is not enough for compensation.”
Comeback, My records show the flight arrived Y hours late. UK261/EU261 states that compensation is due for delays of three hours or more on arrival. Please re-verify the actual arrival time.
FAQ
How much compensation can I expect for my delayed flight?
The amount depends on the flight distance and delay length. For delays of 3-4 hours on flights up to 1,500km, it's £220 (€250). For longer flights or delays over 4 hours, it can be up to £520 (€600) per person. Check the specific distance and delay for your flight.
What if British Airways offers me a voucher instead of cash?
You are legally entitled to cash compensation under UK261/EU261. While British Airways may offer vouchers, you are not obliged to accept them and can insist on the cash payment. Vouchers often have restrictions and expiry dates.
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A self-serve tool, not a law firm. General information, not legal advice.