Finnair or British Airways Australia Delay — How to File EU261 Claim

How do I file an EU261/UK261 claim from Australia?

Five steps: 1) Capture actual final-arrival time (Flightradar24). 2) Go to the operating carrier's website (ba.com or finnair.com). 3) Submit Compensation form with booking reference, flight number, date, and arrival time. 4) Wait 4–8 weeks. 5) If rejected, escalate to UK CAA (BA) or Finland Traficom (Finnair) — or use a no-win-no-fee service like ClaimWinger.

Which is easier — BA or Finnair?

Both are responsive. BA: UK CAA + CEDR ADR. Finnair: Finland Traficom. Both file processes are in English. UK statute of limitations is 6 years (most generous); Finnish is 3 years.

What evidence do I need?

Booking reference, flight number, scheduled and actual arrival times, boarding pass (if you have it), any communication from the airline. Save screenshots of departure-board status. The 3-hour delay clock runs from scheduled arrival time at the FINAL destination.

Should I file directly or use a service?

Direct filing is free but you handle everything yourself. A no-win-no-fee service charges 25–35% commission only on success — useful when the airline rejects (the service handles escalation, NEB filings, and potentially court proceedings). For straightforward delays, direct is fine; for rejected claims, use a service.

How long until payment arrives?

Approved claims usually pay within 4–8 weeks of acceptance. Bank transfer in EUR or GBP to your AUD account. Some airlines try to pay in Avios/miles — decline; you're entitled to monetary compensation.