Stories

Wed, 15 Jul 2026

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 What are my rights if my flight is cancelled or delayed?

We look at the different circumstances that affect you if you're due a refund for cancelled or delayed flights.

* UK holidaymakers flying out on summer holidays may face flight disruptions, but have various rights if flights are cancelled or delayed.
* Passengers affected by cancellations or delays can claim a refund, depending on their airline and departure/arrival airport.
* UK and EU airlines must provide assistance to passengers in case of cancellations or delays, including meals, accommodation, and alternative flights.
* If a flight is covered by UK law, passengers have the right to choose between a refund or an alternative flight, regardless of how far in advance the cancellation was made.
* Passengers can claim compensation for delayed flights over 2 hours for short-haul, 3 hours for medium-haul, and 4 hours for long-haul flights.
* If a flight is cancelled with less than 14 days' notice, passengers may be able to claim up to £220-£520 per person in compensation, depending on the distance of the flight.
* Airlines will not refund loss of earnings due to flight delays, and travel insurance policies usually do not cover this either.