Flight delays can be frustrating, especially when they disrupt travel plans and cause unexpected expenses. Fortunately, many passengers are entitled to compensation under air passenger rights regulations like EU Regulation 261/2004 (for flights within or departing from Europe) and similar laws in other regions.

However, one crucial question travelers often ask is: “How long do I have to claim compensation for a flight delay?” The answer depends on several factors, including the airline, the route, and the country’s regulations.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover:

  • Legal time limits for filing a flight delay compensation claim
  • Key regulations (EU, UK, US, and other regions)
  • Steps to file a claim before the deadline
  • Exceptions and special cases
  • Tips to maximize your chances of success

By the end, you’ll know exactly how much time you have to claim what you’re owed—and how to do it effectively.

Understanding Flight Delay Compensation Rights

Before diving into time limits, it’s essential to know when you’re eligible for compensation.

When Are You Entitled to Compensation?

Under EU Regulation 261/2004, you may claim compensation if:

  • Your flight departed from an EU airport (regardless of the airline) OR
  • Your flight arrived in the EU and was operated by an EU airline
  • The delay was at least 3 hours upon arrival
  • The delay was due to the airline’s fault (e.g., technical issues, crew shortages)

Exceptions:

  • Extraordinary circumstances (bad weather, air traffic control strikes, political unrest) usually exempt airlines from paying.
  • Some countries outside the EU (like the UK, Canada, and the US) have different rules.

Time Limits for Filing a Flight Delay Compensation Claim

The deadline for submitting a claim varies depending on where the flight was operated and the airline’s policy.

1. EU & UK Flights: 2 to 6 Years

  • EU Regulation 261/2004 does not specify a strict deadline, but national laws apply.
  • Most EU countries (Germany, France, Spain, etc.) have a 2 to 3-year limitation period from the flight date.
  • The UK allows up to 6 years (England and Wales) under the Montreal Convention.

Key Takeaway:

  • Best practice: File within 2 years to avoid complications.
  • Some airlines may reject older claims, but courts often accept cases up to 6 years in the UK.

2. US Flights: No Federal Compensation Law, but Airlines May Set Deadlines

  • The US does not mandate compensation for delays, but passengers can claim under:
    • DOT regulations (for refunds due to significant delays)
    • Airline policies (some offer goodwill compensation)
  • Most US airlines require claims within 30 days to 1 year.

Example:

  • Delta, United, American Airlines typically require claims within 1 year.
  • Southwest allows up to 45 days for reimbursement requests.

3. Other Countries (Canada, Australia, etc.)

  • Canada: Under the Air Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR), passengers have 1 year to file a complaint with the airline and can escalate to the Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) if unresolved.
  • Australia: The Australian Consumer Law allows claims for delays under 6 years, but airlines often set shorter deadlines (e.g., 3 months to 1 year).

How to Claim Flight Delay Compensation Before the Deadline

Step 1: Gather Evidence

  • Boarding pass & ticket
  • Flight details (delay duration, reason)
  • Receipts for expenses (meals, hotels)
  • Correspondence with the airline

Step 2: Check the Airline’s Policy

  • Visit the airline’s website for their claims procedure.
  • Some have online claim forms, while others require emails.

Step 3: Submit a Formal Complaint

  • Send a polite but firm email to the airline’s customer service.
  • Mention Regulation 261/2004 (EU/UK) or relevant laws.
  • Include evidence and a clear demand for compensation.

Step 4: Escalate If Necessary

  • If the airline rejects or ignores your claim:
    • EU/UK: File with a national enforcement body (e.g., UK CAA, Spain’s AESA).
    • US: Submit a complaint to the DOT.
    • Canada: Escalate to the CTA.
  • Consider using a flight compensation company (e.g., AirHelp, ClaimCompass) if the process is complex.

What If You Miss the Deadline?

  • Airlines may reject late claims, but exceptions exist:
    • If the delay was recently acknowledged by the airline.
    • If you were unaware of your rights (some courts may accept this).
  • Legal action might still be possible in small claims court (especially in the UK, where the limit is 6 years).

Tips to Strengthen Your Claim

✔ Act fast – File within 1-2 years for EU/UK flights.
✔ Keep records – Save boarding passes, emails, and receipts.
✔ Be persistent – Airlines often reject first claims; follow up.
✔ Use official channels – If the airline refuses, escalate to regulators.