When you are entitled
EU Regulation 261/2004 covers flights departing from an EU airport and flights into the EU on an EU airline. Under European Court of Justice case law, compensation is due if you reach your final destination at least three hours late — measured when the aircraft door opens.
How much you get
- €250 for flights up to 1,500 km
- €400 for intra-EU flights over 1,500 km and other flights of 1,500–3,500 km
- €600 for flights over 3,500 km (may be cut to €300 for a 3–4 hour delay)
No compensation applies in extraordinary circumstances such as severe weather, air traffic control strikes or security risks. Technical faults and strikes by the airline's own staff usually don't count.
Deadlines
In Germany the claim becomes time-barred after three years, counted from the end of the year of the flight (§§ 195, 199 BGB). A 2026 flight can be claimed until 31 Dec 2029.
Writing the claim
- State booking reference, flight number, date, scheduled and actual arrival.
- Name the exact amount under Art. 7 of Regulation 261/2004.
- Set a two-week payment deadline and give your bank details.
- Enclose copies of boarding pass and booking — never originals.
Sample text
Dear Sir or Madam,
my flight [number] on [date] from [city] to [city] arrived [hours] hours late. Under Art. 5 and 7 of Regulation (EC) No 261/2004 I claim compensation of €[amount]. Please transfer the amount by [date] to: [IBAN].
Yours faithfully
If the airline won't pay
You can turn to the free German arbitration body söp or go to court. A letter sent by Einwurfeinschreiben proves that and when you claimed.
Open the template right in the editor: flight delay compensation letter.
Note: This article is not legal advice.