If your easyJet flight was disrupted, EU261 or UK261 may apply depending on the route and operating carrier. A qualifying delay, cancellation, or denied-boarding case can result in fixed compensation, but the amount and eligibility depend on the full facts.
Pro Tip: These rights apply to all major airlines operating in Europe. If your easyJet flight departed from a UK or EU airport, passenger-rights rules may apply. Compensation still depends on the final arrival delay, cancellation notice, disruption cause, and any valid airline defence.
easyJet Compensation Guide: What Amount Could Apply?
The amount of compensation is determined by the flight distance and the length of the delay. It is not tied to the price you paid for your ticket.
| Flight Distance | Arrival Delay | Compensation |
|---|---|---|
| Under 1,500 km | 3+ Hours | €250 (£220) |
| 1,500 - 3,500 km | 3+ Hours | €400 (£350) |
| Over 3,500 km | 3 - 4 Hours | €300 (£260) |
| Over 3,500 km | 4+ Hours | €600 (£520) |
Rejected by easyJet? 3 Common Reasons and How to Review Them
Many passengers receive a standard rejection letter when they first apply. Here is how to handle the most common excuses:
1. "Extraordinary Circumstances" (Technical Issues)
Airlines often claim a technical fault is "extraordinary." However, European courts have ruled that most technical problems are part of normal operations. A routine technical fault may still leave compensation available, but the facts and any valid extraordinary-circumstances defence must be checked.
2. "Crew Strike"
A strike involving easyJet's own staff may not qualify as an extraordinary circumstance, while an external air-traffic-control or airport strike may. The airline must still show the cause and that it took reasonable measures.
3. "You Arrived Under 3 Hours Late"
Airlines calculate arrival time when the aircraft door opens, not when the wheels touch the tarmac. Always record the exact time the doors opened.
The 6-Year Deadline: How Long Do You Have to Claim Against easyJet?
In England and Wales, you have up to 6 years from the flight date to start a claim. In Scotland, the limit is 5 years. This is a much longer window than for lost luggage claims, which must be filed within days.
easyJet Delay: Your 2-Hour "Right to Care" Checklist
The right-to-care threshold is generally two, three, or four hours depending on flight distance. When it applies, ask for reasonable meals and communications, plus hotel accommodation and transport if an overnight stay becomes necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does easyJet take to pay compensation?
Legally, airlines should respond within 30 days. However, easyJet's processing time typically ranges from 4 to 12 weeks. If you haven't heard back after 8 weeks, you can escalate the claim to an ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) body.
Can I get a refund and compensation at the same time?
Potentially. A cancellation can create a refund or rerouting choice, while fixed compensation is a separate question. Compensation depends on notice, route, arrival timing, the alternative offered, and whether a valid extraordinary circumstance applies.
What if my easyJet flight was diverted?
A diversion can be assessed as a delay at the final intended destination. Fixed compensation may apply when the relevant arrival threshold is met, but route coverage and the reason for the diversion still matter.
Do I need my boarding pass to claim?
While a boarding pass is the best proof, you can still claim using just your 6-character Booking Reference (PNR) and your flight number. It is highly recommended to keep digital copies or screenshots of your boarding passes just in case.
Does easyJet pay for missed connecting flights?
easyJet is a point-to-point airline, meaning they do not officially "connect" flights. If you booked two separate easyJet flights and a delay on the first causes you to miss the second, they are only liable for the delay on the first flight. However, if you booked a "Worldwide by easyJet" connecting flight, different rules may apply.
Review Your Flight Before Choosing a Claim Route
Use the optional partner checker for an initial indication, or claim directly with easyJet using the evidence in this guide.
Country and route guides
easyJet routes can touch UK261, EU261 and country-specific airport disruption patterns.