Ryanair: Baggage delay compensation (EU261) — Checklist

Flight delay compensation guide under EU261/2004 and UK261

Passengers affected by flight disruption may have rights to assistance and, in some cases, compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004 (EU261) or the UK’s retained version (UK261). These rules can apply to delays, cancellations, and denied boarding, depending on the route, airline, and circumstances. This guide explains when compensation may be due, how much it can be, and how to make a claim.

Eligibility for compensation

Compensation depends on several factors, including which regulation applies, the length of the delay at arrival, and whether the cause was within the airline’s control. A passenger generally must have a confirmed booking and have checked in on time (or within the airline’s stated deadline), unless the airline prevented check-in.

When EU261/2004 may apply

• Departing from an EU/EEA airport, regardless of airline nationality; or
• Arriving into the EU/EEA on an EU/EEA carrier from a non-EU/EEA airport.

When UK261 may apply

• Departing from a UK airport, regardless of airline nationality; or
• Arriving into the UK on a UK carrier from a non-UK airport.

Delay threshold (arrival time)

For compensation linked to delay, the key measure is typically the delay on arrival at the final destination. Compensation is generally considered when the passenger arrives 3 hours or more late, subject to the airline proving the disruption was caused by extraordinary circumstances.

Extraordinary circumstances (when compensation may not be due)

Airlines may avoid paying compensation if they can show the disruption was caused by extraordinary circumstances that could not have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken. Examples often cited include certain severe weather events, air traffic control restrictions, and some security risks. Routine technical issues and typical operational problems are not automatically extraordinary; the airline’s specific evidence and circumstances matter.

Compensation amounts (EU261/UK261)

Compensation is set by distance bands and, in some situations, can be reduced when a passenger is re-routed and arrives within certain time limits. Amounts below are the standard EU261/UK261 figures.

• €250 for flights up to 1,500 km
• €400 for flights within the EU over 1,500 km, and for other flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km
• €600 for flights over 3,500 km

Some re-routing scenarios can allow the airline to reduce compensation by 50% if the passenger’s arrival delay falls within specified limits for the distance category. The reduction depends on the distance band and the final arrival delay after re-routing.

Right to care (meals, communication, and accommodation)

Separate from compensation, passengers may be entitled to care and assistance during a long delay. This can include meals and refreshments, access to communication (such as phone calls or emails), and hotel accommodation with transport where an overnight stay becomes necessary. The exact trigger points depend on flight distance and delay length, and the obligation generally applies even when extraordinary circumstances prevent cash compensation.

How to claim compensation

A passenger typically claims directly with the airline operating the flight. Claims are usually made through the airline’s online form or customer relations contacts. A clear, well-documented submission can improve efficiency.

Step-by-step claim process

• Confirm applicability: check whether EU261 or UK261 applies based on route and carrier.
• Confirm delay at arrival: use the actual arrival time at the gate where doors open, not the landing time.
• Identify the flight distance band: to determine the compensation bracket.
• Submit a written claim: include flight number, date, booking reference, and brief description of the disruption.
• Request expenses separately: if claiming reimbursement for care (meals, hotel, transport), itemize and attach receipts.
• Escalate if needed: if the airline rejects the claim and the passenger disagrees, escalation options may include an approved alternative dispute resolution scheme (where available) or the relevant national enforcement body, depending on the situation.

Documents to prepare

Airlines typically ask for proof of travel and basic booking details. Keeping complete documentation can help resolve disputes over timings and eligibility.

• Booking confirmation and ticket/itinerary
• Boarding pass (or other proof of check-in)
• Receipts for meals, refreshments, hotel, and transport (if claiming expenses)
• Proof of delay (such as airline notifications, screenshots of airport information boards, or emails/SMS)
• Bank details for payment (where requested by the airline)

FAQ

Does compensation apply to any flight delay?

Compensation is not automatic for every delay. Under EU261/UK261, compensation for delay is generally linked to an arrival delay of at least 3 hours and may be denied if the airline proves extraordinary circumstances.

Is compensation different from a refund?

Yes. Compensation is a fixed sum intended to address inconvenience under EU261/UK261 rules. Refund and re-routing rights apply in cancellation and certain delay situations and depend on the circumstances and the options offered.

Can a passenger claim both care expenses and compensation?

Care and assistance (and reimbursement of reasonable expenses where applicable) is separate from compensation. A passenger may be entitled to both, provided the requirements for each are met.

What if the airline says the delay was due to extraordinary circumstances?

An airline typically must support its position with a clear explanation. The passenger can request details and keep written records. If the passenger disputes the decision, escalation via the airline’s complaint pathway and, where available, dispute resolution routes may be considered.

What matters most: departure delay or arrival delay?

For compensation based on delay, the focus is generally on the delay on arrival at the final destination on the booking, including any connections, rather than the delay at departure.

Conclusion

EU261/2004 and UK261 can provide practical protections when a flight is heavily delayed, including care at the airport and, in some cases, fixed compensation based on distance and arrival delay. A passenger who keeps strong documentation and submits a clear claim to the operating airline is typically in the best position to obtain the outcome the regulations allow.