Does UK261 cover flights from the U.S. to London?

Only on a UK or EU airline, such as British Airways, Virgin Atlantic or Aer Lingus. U.S. airlines flying into the UK aren't covered, but every airline flying out of the UK is.

How much is UK flight delay compensation?

£220 for flights up to 1,500 km, £350 for 1,500–3,500 km and £520 for longer flights, for a delay of three hours or more within the airline's control.

Passenger rights · 2026

UK261 (United Kingdom)

The UK kept the EU rules after Brexit, with the amounts in pounds: up to £520 per person for a long delay, cancellation or denied boarding within the airline's control.

Verified Oct 17, 2026By Steven MoHow we check Report a correction

What you're owed

The UK kept the EU rules after Brexit, with the amounts in pounds: up to £520 per person for a long delay, cancellation or denied boarding within the airline's control.

Flights up to 1,500 km: £220
Flights of 1,500–3,500 km: £350
Flights over 3,500 km: £520

Which flights: Flights departing a UK airport, on any airline; and flights arriving in the UK on a UK or EU airline. A Delta flight from London is covered; a Delta flight to London isn't, but a British Airways or Virgin Atlantic one is.

Status in 2026: In force. The UK's version has been amended since Brexit and is now separate from the EU's; the EU reform agreed in 2026 doesn't change it.

When you're owed compensation

•Arriving three or more hours late, a cancellation with less than 14 days' notice, or being denied boarding.
•The cause was within the airline's control; extraordinary circumstances such as weather and air traffic control don't qualify.

Care while you wait

Meals, refreshments and an overnight hotel when needed, whatever the cause, and a refund option after a five-hour delay.

How to claim

•Claim from the airline first. If it refuses, use its alternative dispute resolution scheme or the Civil Aviation Authority's complaints service.
•You have up to six years to bring a claim in England and Wales, and five in Scotland.

FAQ

Flights up to 1,500 km: £220; Flights of 1,500–3,500 km: £350; Flights over 3,500 km: £520.

Other passenger rights rules

EU261 (European Union) U.S. DOT refund rules Canada's Air Passenger Protection Regulations

Sources

Last verified Oct 17, 2026. This is a plain-language summary, not legal advice. The official text and enforcement bodies have the final word.

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