Airline customers who have experienced delays are being urged to familiarise themselves with their rights. They may be able to claim hundreds in compensation. In some cases you could claim up to £520 for severe disruptions to your flight.
However, there are some certain criteria that must be met in order to receive compensation for any flight delays. This includes whether your flight is in or outside the UK or EU and whether the flight delay was the airline's fault or outside of their control. It's important to note that passengers who have had their flights cancelled are always entitled to a refund or alternative flight.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) outlines on its website that in events of "significant delay", airlines are mandated to provide a reasonable quantity of food and drink, typically through vouchers, reimburse costs for phone calls, and ensure accommodation for those stuck overnight, as well as transportation to either the hotel or their residence. Delays qualifying for such support include over two hours for short-haul flights under 1,500km, over three hours for medium haul up to 3,500km, and over four hours for long-haul journeys. In instances where airlines fail to arrange this support on the day, the CAA advises passengers to make their own "reasonable" arrangements, retain receipts, and later claim reimbursement, although it notes that costs for "luxury hotels and alcohol" are unlikely to be covered.
Airlines must cough up compensation for delays over .