Your right to compensation under EU 261/2004
Regulation EU 261/2004 is the cornerstone of passenger rights in Europe. If your flight departs from the EU, or is operated by a European carrier, and it’s delayed, cancelled, or you’re bumped from an overbooked flight, you can be entitled to financial compensation. The rule holds airlines accountable for the disruption — and British Airways is no exception.
British Airways compensation for a delayed flight
If you flew with British Airways and your delayed flight arrived at your destination three hours or more late, you’re entitled to compensation. The clock runs at arrival, not departure. If the delay wasn’t caused by extraordinary circumstances, you have a right to be paid.
British Airways compensation for a cancelled flight
If British Airways cancels your flight and tells you less than 14 days before departure, you’re entitled to compensation. The amount depends on flight distance and the rerouting offered.
How much compensation am I entitled to?
| Flight distance | Compensation per passenger |
|---|---|
| Up to 1,500 km (e.g. London – Paris) | €250 |
| 1,500–3,500 km (within EU, e.g. London – Madrid) | €400 |
| Over 3,500 km (outside EU, e.g. London – New York) | €600 |
These amounts are fixed by EU law and don’t depend on the ticket price — even on a cheap fare, you’re entitled to the full amount.
When you’re not entitled
You’re not entitled when:
- You were told about the cancellation more than 14 days before departure.
- The flight was cancelled because of extraordinary circumstances the airline couldn’t control.
- You arrived at your final destination less than 3 hours late.
If you were denied boarding because of overbooking, no exceptions apply — compensation is always due.
How to claim compensation from British Airways
Two options. First, claim directly with British Airways — their process can drag on. Second, and much simpler: check your claim with Refundio. Fill in the form and we handle the rest. Unlike most of our competitors, we even pay you upfront — no waiting months. Nothing to pay upfront on your side.
Missed a connection because of a delayed BA flight? See our page on missed connections.
What if the airline rejects the claim?
If British Airways turns you down, don’t give up. Start a free claim with Refundio — we deal with the airline for you, and if needed, we go to court to defend your rights. You only pay from compensation we recover.