Your right to compensation under EU 261/2004
Regulation EU 261/2004 covers flights leaving the EU and flights arriving in the EU when run by a European carrier. So if you’re flying KLM from New York to Amsterdam, the regulation applies the same as on an EU departure. If your flight was delayed, cancelled, or you faced overbooking, you’re entitled to up to €600.
KLM compensation for a delayed flight
If you flew with KLM and your delayed flight landed more than three hours late, you’re entitled to compensation — the delay is measured at arrival, not at take-off. Hang on to your boarding passes and every delay confirmation.
KLM compensation for a cancelled flight
If your flight was cancelled less than 14 days before departure, you’re entitled to compensation. If they put you on an alternative flight that lands more than 4 hours late, the entitlement still stands. Missed a connecting flight because of the KLM cancellation? That’s also covered.
How much compensation am I entitled to?
| Flight distance | Compensation per passenger |
|---|---|
| Up to 1,500 km (e.g. London – Amsterdam) | €250 |
| 1,500–3,500 km (e.g. London – Madrid) | €400 |
| Over 3,500 km (e.g. London – New York) | €600 |
When you’re not entitled
You’re not entitled when:
- The delay or cancellation was caused by extraordinary circumstances (severe weather, airport staff strike).
- You were told about the cancellation more than 14 days ahead.
- You were flying outside the EU on a non-European carrier.
- You voluntarily gave up your seat in exchange for benefits.
How to claim compensation from KLM
You have two options. Go to KLM directly and fill in their form — slow going. Or — much simpler — check your claim with Refundio. Fill in our form and we handle the rest, including talking to KLM and going to court if it comes to that. Nothing to pay upfront.
What if KLM rejects the claim?
If KLM turns you down, contact Refundio. We’ve dealt with the complicated ones — and we’re not afraid to take an airline to court so our clients get what’s theirs.