Flydubai: How to claim step-by-step (US DOT rules) — Rights & Amounts

Flight Delay Compensation Guide (EU261/2004 and UK261)

Passengers affected by flight delays may be entitled to financial compensation and practical assistance under EU261/2004 or UK261. These rules apply based on the flight’s departure airport, the operating carrier, and whether the journey is covered by EU or UK passenger rights. This guide explains when compensation may be available, how much can be claimed, and how to submit a claim correctly.

Eligibility for flight delay compensation

Compensation under EU261/2004 or UK261 is typically linked to the delay at the final destination and whether the airline is responsible for the disruption. A passenger may be eligible when the delay on arrival is at least three hours and the cause is not considered an “extraordinary circumstance.”

When EU261/2004 may apply

• Flights departing from an EU/EEA airport or Switzerland, regardless of the airline
• Flights arriving into an EU/EEA airport or Switzerland when operated by an EU/EEA carrier

When UK261 may apply

• Flights departing from a UK airport, regardless of the airline
• Flights arriving into a UK airport when operated by a UK carrier

Arrival delay: the key measurement

The relevant delay is measured at arrival at the final destination (generally when at least one aircraft door is opened and passengers are allowed to disembark). For connecting itineraries booked under the same reservation, the delay is assessed at the final destination, not just at an intermediate stop.

Extraordinary circumstances and airline responsibility

Compensation is not usually payable if the delay is caused by extraordinary circumstances that could not have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken. These often include severe weather, air traffic control restrictions, security risks, and certain airport disruptions. Issues within the airline’s control, such as many operational problems, may not qualify as extraordinary circumstances.

Compensation amounts for flight delays

Where eligible, fixed-sum compensation is generally determined by the flight distance and the length of the arrival delay. The amounts below are those commonly associated with EU261/2004 and are mirrored in UK261 (paid in the relevant currency by the airline).

EU261/UK261 fixed compensation bands

• Up to 1,500 km: €250 (or UK equivalent)
• 1,501 to 3,500 km: €400 (or UK equivalent)
• Over 3,500 km: €600 (or UK equivalent)

Possible reduction on certain long-haul delays

For some long-haul journeys, compensation may be reduced by 50% depending on the delay length and route category. Airlines sometimes apply this where the arrival delay falls within specific thresholds for longer flights.

Right to care: meals, refreshments, and accommodation

Separate from compensation, passengers may be entitled to assistance (often called the “right to care”) when delays reach certain time thresholds. This can include meals and refreshments, access to communications, and—when an overnight stay becomes necessary—hotel accommodation and transport between the airport and the hotel.

Airlines may provide vouchers or reimburse reasonable expenses when passengers must arrange care themselves. Receipts and proof of necessity are important for reimbursement requests.

How to claim flight delay compensation

A claim is typically submitted directly to the operating airline. Passengers should provide clear details and keep copies of everything submitted.

Step-by-step claim process

• Confirm coverage: Identify whether EU261/2004 or UK261 applies based on departure/arrival and the operating carrier.
• Calculate delay: Use the arrival time at the final destination, not departure time.
• Check the reason: Ask the airline for the disruption cause and keep any written confirmation.
• Submit the claim: Use the airline’s online form or customer relations contact channel.
• Request both: If applicable, request fixed compensation and reimbursement for care expenses.
• Escalate if needed: If rejected and eligibility is believed to be met, consider escalation through an appropriate dispute resolution route or the relevant national enforcement body guidance.

Documents to support a flight delay claim

Strong documentation improves the chances of a successful claim and faster processing.

Commonly useful documents

• Booking confirmation and itinerary showing the final destination
• Boarding pass (if available) and e-ticket receipt
• Proof of arrival delay (screenshots, airport display photos, or written airline confirmation)
• Receipts for meals, transport, and accommodation (if claiming reimbursement)
• Bank details for payment (submitted securely through the airline’s process)
• Any written messages from the airline about the delay reason

FAQ

Is compensation available for delays under three hours?

Fixed compensation under EU261/2004 or UK261 generally requires an arrival delay of at least three hours. However, the right to care (meals, communications, and potentially accommodation) may apply earlier depending on the delay length and flight distance.

Does a passenger need travel insurance to claim EU261/UK261 compensation?

No. EU261/2004 and UK261 are statutory passenger rights separate from travel insurance. Travel insurance may cover additional losses, but it does not replace airline obligations under these regulations.

Are connecting flights covered?

Connecting itineraries can be covered when the journey is booked under one reservation. The relevant delay is assessed at the final destination. If separate tickets were purchased, protections may be more limited for missed connections.

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

If an airline denies compensation on that basis, passengers can request a clearer explanation and supporting details. If the passenger believes the disruption was within the airline’s control or reasonable measures were not taken, escalation options may be available depending on the applicable jurisdiction and complaint route.

Can reimbursement be claimed for food and hotel costs?

Yes, where the right to care applies and the airline did not provide assistance, passengers may request reimbursement of reasonable expenses. Receipts and evidence that the expenses were necessary are essential.

Conclusion

EU261/2004 and UK261 provide practical protections for passengers facing significant delays, including fixed compensation in eligible cases and assistance during longer disruptions. A successful claim typically depends on the arrival delay at the final destination, whether the regulation applies to the route and carrier, and whether the cause falls outside extraordinary circumstances. Passengers improve their prospects by gathering documents early, submitting a clear claim to the operating airline, and keeping thorough records of expenses and communications.