flight delay compensation calculator

How this flight delay compensation calculator works

This flight delay compensation calculator gives you a quick estimate of what you may be owed when your flight arrives late. It follows common EU261/UK261 compensation bands and applies practical rules used by most claims teams: route eligibility, arrival delay threshold, flight distance, and extraordinary circumstances.

The output is an estimate, not a legal decision. Airlines may request additional evidence and can reject claims when they believe the disruption was outside their control. Still, calculating your likely amount up front helps you decide whether to claim.

Typical compensation amounts under EU261/UK261

If you qualify, compensation is generally calculated per passenger:

• €250 for flights up to 1,500 km (3+ hour arrival delay)
• €400 for flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km (3+ hour arrival delay)
• €400 for many long intra-region flights (entirely within EU/EEA/UK/CH)
• €300 to €600 for some long-haul non-intra flights, depending on delay length

For non-intra flights above 3,500 km, compensation may be reduced to 50% when arrival delay is between 3 and 4 hours. That is why this calculator asks both distance and delay duration.

Eligibility checklist before you file a claim

1) Route scope must be covered

Your itinerary is usually covered when the flight departed from a covered region airport, or when it arrived in that region on a carrier based in the region. If neither applies, compensation under these rules is often unavailable.

2) Arrival delay usually must be 3+ hours

The key measure is arrival delay, not departure delay. Arrival is usually defined as when at least one aircraft door opens at destination.

3) Airline responsibility matters

Compensation may not be due when delay was caused by extraordinary events: severe weather, airport shutdowns, political instability, security threats, or air traffic control restrictions. Technical and staffing issues are often treated differently and may still be compensable.

Documents that improve your success rate

• Boarding pass and booking confirmation
• Proof of actual arrival time (app screenshots, airport boards, airline notifications)
• Written communications from the airline
• Receipts for meals, transport, or hotel costs if applicable
• ID and passenger names exactly as booked

Step-by-step claim strategy

Step 1: Run your numbers

Use this calculator to estimate per-passenger and total compensation. Keep a screenshot of the result for your records.

Step 2: Submit directly to the airline

Most carriers provide a web form for compensation claims. Include your flight number, route, delay details, and requested amount. Clear and concise claims usually receive faster responses.

Step 3: Escalate if needed

If the airline rejects your claim and you believe the decision is incorrect, escalate to the relevant national enforcement body, ADR program, or a specialized claims service.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Using departure delay instead of arrival delay
• Skipping evidence collection on the day of travel
• Assuming every delay is automatically compensable
• Submitting incomplete passenger details
• Waiting too long and missing limitation periods

FAQ

Is this calculator legally binding?

No. It is an estimate based on common compensation rules and does not replace legal advice.

Can I claim for each person in my booking?

Usually yes. Compensation is generally calculated per passenger, which is why this tool includes a passenger count field.

What if the airline says weather caused the delay?

Request detailed reasoning and supporting records. Sometimes airlines cite extraordinary circumstances broadly, but the exact operational cause and timeline determine whether compensation is still due.

Final note

A reliable flight delay compensation calculator helps you make informed decisions quickly. If your estimate is meaningful, file the claim with evidence and stay organized. Small administrative details often make the difference between rejection and payout.