Flight Compensation in Ireland
Updated June 2026 · EU261 · Ireland
Quick answer
Flights departing Ireland are covered by EU261, so a delay of 3+ hours, a short-notice cancellation or denied boarding can be worth €250–€600 per passenger. In Ireland you generally have six years to bring a claim, and the enforcement body is the Commission for Aviation Regulation (CAR).
Claiming in Ireland
Ireland applies EU261, 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 Commission for Aviation Regulation (CAR) 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 Ireland you generally have six years 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.
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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 Ireland: FAQ
- How long do I have to claim flight compensation in Ireland?
- In Ireland the limitation period is generally six years. 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 Ireland?
- The national enforcement body is the Commission for Aviation Regulation (CAR). If the airline rejects or ignores a valid EU261 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 Ireland?
- 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 Ireland free?
- Yes — you can claim directly with the airline at no cost, and escalate to the Commission for Aviation Regulation (CAR) 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.
Ireland airlines
Free eligibility check · service fee 25–35% only if you win · claiming directly yourself is free