How to Claim EU261 Compensation: Step-by-Step Guide

What documents do I need to make an EU261 claim?

Essential documents: (1) Boarding pass or booking confirmation showing your name, flight number, and route. (2) Evidence of the delay — airline email/SMS, flight tracker screenshot (e.g. FlightAware or FlightRadar24), or a statement from a gate agent. (3) Names and contact details of all passengers in your booking. (4) Your IBAN or bank account for payment. Optional but useful: receipts for meals, transport, or accommodation expenses during the delay (for right to care claims). Keep all documents for at least 3 years.

The airline says the delay was 'extraordinary circumstances' — is this valid?

Airlines frequently cite extraordinary circumstances (weather, ATC restrictions, security issues) to avoid paying EU261 compensation. However, under the CJEU ruling in Wallentin-Hermann (C-549/07), routine technical faults are NOT extraordinary — airlines must maintain aircraft diligently and anticipate such issues. Genuine extraordinary circumstances include: severe weather not affecting a specific aircraft type, major ATC strikes, security threats, or bird strikes. 'Technical issues' and 'crew unavailability' are almost never extraordinary.

Can I claim for multiple passengers on the same booking?

Yes. EU261 compensation is per passenger, not per booking. If you booked for 4 passengers and all were delayed 3+ hours, each person is entitled to €250, €400, or €600 — totalling €1,000–€2,400 for the group. Include all passenger names in your claim. You can submit a single claim letter on behalf of all passengers on the same booking, providing each person's full name and travel document details.

How long does an EU261 claim take?

Direct airline claim: Airlines typically respond within 14 days, but may take 4–8 weeks for payment. National enforcement body (NEB): 2–6 months depending on the country and backlog. ADR schemes: 1–3 months. Small claims court: 3–12 months depending on jurisdiction. In the UK, CEDR aviation ADR typically resolves cases within 90 days. The fastest outcomes are usually direct airline settlements or SÖP in Germany.

Should I use a claims company or claim myself?

Claiming yourself is free and straightforward for clear-cut cases (3+ hour delay on an EU carrier from an EU airport). Claims companies charge 20–35% of your compensation, reducing €400 to ~€260. Use a claims company if: the claim is complex (missed connections, non-EU carriers), the airline has repeatedly rejected your claim, you are uncomfortable with paperwork, or you lack time. Weigh the fee against the effort — for a single €400 claim, DIY saves €80–€140.