15 July 2026
EU261 air passenger rights explained
A clear overview of EU Regulation 261/2004 — when you can claim €250–€600 for flight delays, cancellations and denied boarding.
EU Regulation (EC) No 261/2004 — often called EU261 — sets minimum rights for air passengers when flights are delayed, cancelled or overbooked. If your trip is covered, you may be entitled to a fixed cash compensation of €250, €400 or €600, plus care and a refund or rerouting in many cases.
When does EU261 apply?
EU261 generally covers:
- Flights departing from an airport in the EU (any airline), and
- Flights into the EU operated by an EU airline.
Flights into the EU on a non-EU carrier from outside the EU are usually outside the regulation. Always check your itinerary and operating carrier.
Compensation amounts
| Flight distance | Compensation |
|---|---|
| Up to 1,500 km | €250 |
| 1,500–3,500 km | €400 |
| Over 3,500 km | €600 |
These amounts typically apply when you arrive at your final destination 3 hours or more late, your flight is cancelled (subject to notice and alternative transport rules), or you are denied boarding against your will.
On some long-haul journeys, compensation for delays between three and four hours may be reduced by 50%.
Extraordinary circumstances
Airlines may refuse compensation when the disruption was caused by extraordinary circumstances that could not have been avoided — for example severe weather or certain security risks. Even then, you may still have rights to care (meals, refreshments, hotel) and to a refund or rerouting.
What to keep
- Booking confirmation / e-ticket with reference
- Boarding passes
- Screenshots of departure boards or airline app notices
- Any vouchers or hotel receipts issued during the wait
Next steps
TicketRefund helps you file EU261 claims for qualifying flights across Europe. Sister sites FerryRefund and TrainRefund cover maritime and rail passenger rights under other EU rules.