The short answer
UK261 can apply to flights departing the UK on any airline, arriving in the UK on a UK or EU airline, and arriving in the EU on a UK airline. A final arrival more than three hours late may qualify for fixed compensation when the cause was not an extraordinary circumstance. Care can apply during the delay even when fixed compensation does not.
Current compensation bands
For qualifying delays, the CAA lists £220 for flights under 1,500 km and £350 for flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km. For flights over 3,500 km, it lists £260 when arrival is between three and four hours late and £520 when arrival is more than four hours late. The amount is not based on the ticket price.
Care and the five-hour choice
The CAA states that care begins after at least two hours for flights under 1,500 km, three hours for flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km, and four hours for longer flights. If the departure delay reaches at least five hours, the passenger can choose not to travel and seek a refund for unused flights on the booking.
Cancellation and denied boarding
A covered cancellation requires the airline to offer a refund or alternative flight. Fixed compensation can also apply when notice is under 14 days, subject to replacement timing and extraordinary circumstances. A passenger involuntarily denied boarding after timely check-in may receive compensation, alternative travel or refund, and care; a volunteer negotiates a separate arrangement.
How to escalate
Claim from the airline first. If the final response is unsatisfactory, or the airline has taken more than eight weeks, escalation may go to an approved Alternative Dispute Resolution provider or to the CAA Passenger Advice and Complaints Team where appropriate.
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