How to Claim Flight Delay Compensation in the US and Europe
Flight delays are frustrating — but depending on where you’re flying, they might also mean cash in your pocket. The rules for flight delay compensation differ greatly between the United States and Europe. Here’s what travelers need to know in 2025.
Compensation in the United States
In the US, there’s no federal law requiring airlines to pay cash compensation for delays. Instead, the Department of Transportation (DOT) mandates that airlines provide a refund if your flight is canceled or significantly changed and you choose not to travel. For delays, airlines may offer vouchers, meal credits, or hotel stays, but these are at their discretion — not a legal requirement.
Compensation in Europe (EU261)
The EU261 regulation is far more generous. If your flight departs from an EU country (or lands there with an EU carrier) and is delayed by more than three hours due to airline fault (not weather or extraordinary circumstances), you could receive:
- €250 for flights under 1,500 km
- €400 for flights 1,500–3,500 km
- €600 for flights over 3,500 km
Key Differences
- US: Refunds only for cancellations/significant changes; compensation is voluntary
- EU: Strict time-based compensation rules with fixed amounts
Tips to Maximize Compensation
- Know your route — EU rules apply to many US–Europe flights.
- Document everything — keep boarding passes, emails, and delay announcements.
- Claim promptly — airlines have time limits for accepting claims.
While US travelers don’t enjoy the same automatic payouts as EU passengers, knowing your rights — and asking firmly — can still lead to benefits, especially on international flights.
