Flight Delay Compensation Calculator (UK/EU261 Estimate)
Use this quick checker to estimate what you might claim for delays, cancellations, or denied boarding under UK/EU passenger rights rules.
This is an educational estimate inspired by common MoneySavingExpert-style guidance. It is not legal advice.
How this Martin Lewis-style flight delay calculator helps
If you searched for a flight delay compensation calculator martin lewis, you’re likely trying to answer one practical question: “Can I claim, and if yes, roughly how much?” That’s exactly what this page is built for.
The tool above gives a fast estimate using the core UK/EU compensation framework (often called UK261 or EU261). It checks route coverage, delay timing, distance bands, and whether extraordinary circumstances may apply.
Quick compensation bands used by the calculator
| Flight distance | Typical compensation | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 1,500 km | €250 | May be reduced by 50% in some rerouting situations |
| 1,501 to 3,500 km | €400 | May be reduced by 50% depending on final delay |
| Over 3,500 km | €600 | Can reduce to €300 where rules allow |
When you are usually covered
Route and airline rules (simplified)
- Your flight departed from a UK/EU airport, or
- Your flight arrived in the UK/EU on a UK/EU airline.
If neither applies, compensation under UK/EU261 may not be available (though other local laws might still help).
Delay thresholds (important)
For ordinary delay claims, a delay of 3+ hours at final arrival is the common trigger for compensation checks. Cancellations and denied boarding can follow slightly different paths, which is why the calculator asks for issue type.
What counts as “extraordinary circumstances”?
Airlines usually don’t pay compensation when disruption was outside their control, such as:
- Severe weather or volcanic ash cloud closures
- Air traffic control restrictions
- Airport security emergencies
Typical technical faults or routine staffing issues are often not extraordinary. This is one of the most disputed parts of many claims.
How to claim compensation yourself (without a claims firm)
- Run the estimate in the calculator and save your result.
- Collect proof: booking confirmation, boarding pass, delay messages, and arrival time evidence.
- Submit a direct claim to the airline via its complaints portal.
- State your route, delay length, and compensation amount requested under UK/EU261.
- If refused, escalate to the relevant Alternative Dispute Resolution scheme or regulator process.
Claim firms can help, but they usually take a percentage of your payout. Many passengers succeed by claiming directly.
Common mistakes people make
- Using departure delay instead of arrival delay at final destination
- Assuming all cancellations automatically pay compensation
- Accepting first rejection without checking whether “extraordinary” was valid
- Not keeping records of actual arrival time
FAQ
Is this officially connected to Martin Lewis?
No. This page is an independent educational replica layout and calculator inspired by practical money-saving style guidance.
Can I claim in pounds instead of euros?
The legal amounts are commonly expressed in euros. Airlines may pay in pounds using their conversion rate. This tool shows a rough GBP estimate for convenience.
What if my case is complicated?
Use this as a starting point. For complex routing, missed connections, or disputed extraordinary events, seek specialist advice.
Final takeaway
A reliable flight delay compensation calculator should do two things: quickly estimate likely payout and help you decide next steps. Use the estimate above, then file directly with the airline if the numbers suggest you’re eligible.