Which Flights Are Covered by EU Regulation 261/2004 & UK261?
EU261 covers ALL flights departing from an EU/EEA/Swiss airport (regardless of whether the airline is US, European, or Asian), PLUS flights arriving into the EU operated by an EU/EEA/Swiss carrier. UK261 mirrors these protections in British pounds (£220 to £520) for flights departing UK airports or arriving on UK carriers like British Airways and Virgin Atlantic.
Compensation Tiers: €250, €400, and €600
If you arrive at your final destination 3+ hours late due to a cause within the airline’s control (excluding extraordinary circumstances like severe weather or air traffic control strikes), compensation is €250 for flights up to 1,500 km, €400 for 1,500–3,500 km, and €600 (£520) for long-haul flights over 3,500 km.
Right to Care: Meals, Refreshments & Overnight Hotels
Even when a delay is caused by weather or air traffic control, airlines covered by EU261/UK261 must still provide Duty of Care—including meals, refreshments, and overnight hotel accommodation plus airport transfers when an overnight wait is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a US airline flying from Paris CDG or London LHR back to New York covered?
Yes! Because the flight departs from an EU or UK airport, US carriers (United, Delta, American, JetBlue) are legally bound by EU261 / UK261 on the east-to-west return leg.
How should I file an EU261 claim?
File directly through the operating airline’s official online EU261/UK261 claim form first so you keep 100% of the compensation without paying third-party agency commissions.