EU261 Passenger Rights (Reference)
Last updated: 2026-04-27
This page is a neutral reference summary of core EU261 scope, delay thresholds, compensation brackets, and complaint routing.
1. Scope of applicability
EU261 commonly applies when a flight departs from an EU airport.
EU261 can also apply when a flight arrives in the EU and the operating carrier is an EU carrier.
2. Delay threshold
A 3+ hour arrival delay is the commonly referenced threshold for compensation review under EU261.
3. Distance brackets and compensation
| Distance bracket | Published compensation amount |
|---|---|
| Up to 1500 km | EUR 250 |
| 1500-3500 km | EUR 400 |
| Over 3500 km | EUR 600 |
EU261 also includes a reduced compensation scenario of 50% in certain cases. This page does not evaluate those conditions.
4. Extraordinary circumstances
- Air traffic management decisions
- Political instability
- Adverse weather conditions
- Security risks
- Hidden manufacturing defects
- Strikes that are external to the operating air carrier
5. Exclusions / conditions
- A confirmed reservation is generally required.
- Check-in within the carrier's stated deadline is generally required unless the flight is cancelled.
- Timing of notification can affect how cancellation-related rights are assessed.
6. Official complaint process (high-level only)
The carrier is typically the first contact point for an EU261 complaint.
If the matter is not resolved, the relevant national enforcement authority is the next formal escalation point.