Compensation Eligibility: When Can You Claim?
Passengers may be entitled to compensation under UK261 if an Air Europa flight arrives more than three hours late, is cancelled with less than 14 days’ notice, or if boarding is denied due to overbooking. UK261 (retained from Regulation EC 261/2004) applies to flights departing from or arriving in the UK when operated by a UK or EU airline.
However, denied boarding or delay compensation is only payable when the airline is responsible for the disruption. If the issue was caused by circumstances beyond the airline’s control, such as severe weather, air traffic control restrictions, or airport strikes, compensation generally does not apply. In certain situations, technical faults or staffing issues may also be treated as extraordinary circumstances, depending on the specific facts.
In some cases, the airline may offer an alternative flight to your destination. If this replacement flight arrives at a similar time to your original booking, any compensation may be reduced or not awarded. This is why the details of each case are important.
To avoid uncertainty, it is advisable to review your case before assuming you are not covered. Skycop can help you check your eligibility and understand your rights under UK261 in just a few steps.