Flight Compensation in United Kingdom
Updated June 2026 · UK261 · the United Kingdom
Quick answer
Flights departing the United Kingdom are covered by UK261, so a delay of 3+ hours, a short-notice cancellation or denied boarding can be worth £220–£520 per passenger. In the United Kingdom you generally have six years (five in Scotland) to bring a claim, and the enforcement body is the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Claiming in United Kingdom
United Kingdom applies UK261, the air passenger rights regime that gives you fixed cash compensation for long delays, cancellations and denied boarding. You claim directly with the airline first; if it refuses a valid claim, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is the body that oversees enforcement, and an ADR scheme or the small-claims court is the next step. All of that is free.
The practical thing to watch is the deadline: in the United Kingdom you generally have six years (five in Scotland) to bring a claim. Treat that as indicative — it depends on the forum — but don't assume an older flight is too late without checking.
Not sure if your flight qualifies?
Check it free in 30 secondsAirports in United Kingdom
Get your money back
Claim services typically keep 25–35% of your payout as commission. Claiming directly with the airline yourself is free.
Start your claim — no win, no feeFlight compensation in United Kingdom: FAQ
- How long do I have to claim flight compensation in United Kingdom?
- In the United Kingdom the limitation period is generally six years (five in Scotland). These periods are indicative and depend on which court would hear the claim, so confirm before filing an older claim — but flights from the last couple of years are usually still claimable in 2026.
- Who enforces air passenger rights in United Kingdom?
- The national enforcement body is the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). If the airline rejects or ignores a valid UK261 claim, you can escalate to them or to an approved alternative dispute resolution (ADR) scheme — for free — before considering court.
- How much can I claim for a flight from United Kingdom?
- Compensation is fixed by distance: €250 (£220) up to 1,500 km, €400 (£350) for 1,500–3,500 km, and €600 (£520) over 3,500 km, halved on long-haul when you arrive 3–4 hours late. The ticket price doesn't matter.
- Is claiming in United Kingdom free?
- Yes — you can claim directly with the airline at no cost, and escalate to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for free if needed. A no-win-no-fee service keeps roughly 25–35% of the payout and is worth it mainly when the airline stonewalls or court is needed.
United Kingdom airlines
Free eligibility check · service fee 25–35% only if you win · claiming directly yourself is free