UK261 flight compensation, explained
If your flight departed the UK and was delayed 3+ hours or cancelled with under 14 days’ notice, UK261 entitles you to £220–£520, set by distance, unless the cause was outside the airline’s control. (As of 2026-10-05.)
What is UK261?
UK261 is the UK's retained version of EU Regulation 261/2004 after Brexit. It gives passengers a fixed cash payment when a flight departing the UK (or arriving in the UK on a UK/EU airline) is delayed 3+ hours, cancelled with under 14 days' notice, or overbooked, and the cause was within the airline's control.
How much is UK261 compensation?
£220 for flights up to 1,500 km, £350 for 1,500–3,500 km, and £520 for over 3,500 km. For 3–4 hour delays on the longest band the amount can be halved. Verified 2026-10-05.
When do I not get UK261 compensation?
When the delay or cancellation was caused by an extraordinary circumstance outside the airline's control (extreme weather, air traffic control strikes, security risks), or when a cancellation was notified 14+ days ahead.
How do I claim UK261 compensation?
Write to the airline citing UK261 with your flight details; if refused, escalate to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) or an alternative dispute resolution body. It's free to claim yourself; agencies will do it for a success fee.
Compare with EU261 or see the differences. Source: CAA.