Ryanair: How to claim step-by-step (UK261) — Rights & Amounts

Flight Delay Compensation Under EU261/2004 and UK261

Passengers can sometimes claim money back when a flight arrives significantly late. Under EU Regulation 261/2004 (EU261) and the UK’s retained version (UK261), fixed compensation may be available for eligible delays, cancellations, and certain cases of denied boarding. This guide explains when compensation may apply, how much passengers may be entitled to, and how to submit a claim in a practical, organised way.

Eligibility for Compensation

Eligibility depends on where the flight departs from, the airline operating the flight, and the reason for the disruption. EU261/UK261 rights generally apply when a passenger holds a confirmed reservation and checks in on time (unless the airline’s disruption prevents check-in).

When EU261 can apply

• Departing from an EU/EEA airport: EU261 generally applies regardless of airline nationality.
• Arriving in the EU/EEA on an EU/EEA carrier: EU261 generally applies when the operating airline is based in the EU/EEA.

When UK261 can apply

• Departing from a UK airport: UK261 generally applies regardless of airline nationality.
• Arriving in the UK on a UK carrier: UK261 generally applies when the operating airline is UK-based.

Delay threshold that typically matters

For fixed compensation, the key benchmark is usually the arrival delay at the final destination. Compensation may be payable when the passenger arrives at least 3 hours late, provided the disruption was within the airline’s responsibility and not caused by extraordinary circumstances.

Extraordinary circumstances that can affect eligibility

Airlines do not generally owe fixed compensation when a long delay is caused by extraordinary circumstances that could not have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken. Examples commonly include certain severe weather events and air traffic control restrictions. Each case is assessed on its facts, and passengers can still be entitled to care (such as refreshments or accommodation) even where compensation is not due.

Compensation Amounts (EU261/UK261)

Where compensation is payable, the amount is typically based on flight distance and the total arrival delay. Under EU261/UK261, the common fixed compensation levels are:

• Up to 1,500 km: €250 (or the UK261 sterling equivalent)
• 1,500–3,500 km: €400 (or the UK261 sterling equivalent)
• Over 3,500 km: €600 (or the UK261 sterling equivalent)

For certain long-haul cases involving a smaller arrival delay range on re-routed journeys, reduced compensation can apply under the regulations. The exact amount depends on distance and the final delay at arrival.

How to Make a Claim

A compensation claim is usually made directly to the operating airline (the airline that actually flew, or was meant to fly, the flight). A clear, well-documented request can improve the chances of a faster decision.

Step-by-step claim process

• Confirm the coverage: Identify whether EU261 or UK261 applies based on departure/arrival and the operating airline.
• Confirm the delay length: Focus on arrival time at the final destination, not departure time.
• Identify the reason given: Note what the airline said caused the delay and whether it appears to be within airline control.
• Submit the claim: Use the airline’s online form or customer relations channel and reference EU261/UK261 as applicable.
• Keep records: Save copies of submissions, emails, screenshots, and any responses.
• Escalate if needed: If the claim is rejected or ignored, passengers can consider escalation routes such as ADR schemes (where available) or the relevant national enforcement body, and may consider legal action in the appropriate court.

Documents to Prepare

Passengers can strengthen a claim by preparing evidence that supports the booking, the disruption, and the arrival delay. Typical documents include:

• Booking confirmation showing passenger names and itinerary
• Boarding pass or proof of check-in
• Proof of delay such as airline notifications, airport screenshots, or written confirmation from the airline
• Receipts for reasonable expenses, if claiming reimbursement for care costs where applicable
• Bank details for payment of compensation (shared securely through the airline’s official channel)

FAQ

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

No. EU261/UK261 compensation is a statutory right where eligibility criteria are met. Travel insurance is separate and may help with additional losses not covered by the regulation.

Is compensation based on departure delay or arrival delay?

Fixed compensation is generally assessed by the arrival delay at the final destination on the booking. Connections matter, and a short departure delay can still lead to a 3+ hour arrival delay.

Can passengers claim if the airline offers vouchers?

Passengers can choose to accept a voucher, but they are generally not required to. Where compensation is owed under EU261/UK261, passengers can request payment in money rather than vouchers.

Are passengers still entitled to meals or hotels during long delays?

Depending on the length of the delay and flight distance, airlines may owe a duty of care, which can include refreshments, meals, communication, and hotel accommodation with transport where an overnight stay becomes necessary. This duty can apply even where extraordinary circumstances prevent fixed compensation.

Can passengers claim for cancellations under EU261/UK261?

Yes, in many cases. Eligibility depends on factors such as how much notice was given, whether suitable re-routing was offered, and whether extraordinary circumstances caused the cancellation.

Conclusion

EU261/2004 and UK261 can provide meaningful protection for passengers dealing with significant delays. When the regulation applies and the disruption is not caused by extraordinary circumstances, fixed compensation may be available based on flight distance and arrival delay. Passengers can improve outcomes by keeping clear documents, submitting a focused claim to the operating airline, and escalating through appropriate channels if an eligible claim is wrongly denied.