How much does Ryanair pay for a delayed flight?

If you’ve ever experienced the frustration of a delayed or cancelled flight, you’re not alone. For Ryanair passengers, understanding your rights and compensation entitlements can feel like navigating a maze. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how much Ryanair pays when a flight is delayed over three hours or cancelled at short notice, what conditions apply, and how you can claim your compensation.

What Are Your Rights as a Ryanair Passenger?

Flying in the EU, or on an EU airline like Ryanair, comes with specific protections under EU Regulation 261/2004. This law ensures that passengers are compensated for significant flight disruptions, such as delays and cancellations. However, not all delays qualify for compensation, and the amount you receive depends on several factors. Let’s explore these in detail.

Compensation for a Delayed Ryanair Flight

If your Ryanair flight is delayed by more than three hours upon arrival, you could be entitled to compensation. Here are the key points to consider:

1. Delay Duration

The delay must be over three hours at your final destination. This is calculated from the time the aircraft door opens, allowing passengers to disembark.

2. Distance of the Flight

The amount of compensation varies depending on the flight distance:

• €250 or £220: For flights up to 1,500km.

• €400 or £350: For flights between 1,500km and 3,500km.

• €600 or £520: For flights over 3,500km, but only if the delay exceeds four hours.

3. Exceptional Circumstances

Ryanair is not obligated to pay compensation if the delay was caused by “extraordinary circumstances” beyond their control. This includes events like severe weather, air traffic control strikes, or security risks.

Compensation for a Cancelled Ryanair Flight

If Ryanair cancels your flight at short notice, you may be entitled to compensation in addition to a refund or rebooking. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Notice Period

The compensation depends on when Ryanair informed you of the cancellation:

• More than 14 days’ notice: No compensation is due.

• 7-14 days’ notice: Compensation applies if the alternative flight offered arrives more than four hours later than originally scheduled.

• Less than 7 days’ notice: Compensation applies if the alternative flight arrives more than two hours later than originally scheduled.

2. Compensation Amounts

The amounts are the same as for delays:

• €250 for flights up to 1,500km.

• €400 for flights between 1,500km and 3,500km.

• €600 for flights over 3,500km.

How to Claim Compensation from Ryanair

Claiming compensation can seem daunting, but Ryanair has a process in place. Follow these steps:

1. Check Eligibility

Confirm that your flight meets the criteria for compensation. Factors like delay duration, flight distance, and reason for disruption are crucial.

2. Submit a Claim

Use Ryanair’s official EU261 Compensation Form, available on their website. You’ll need to provide:

• Your flight details.

• Booking reference.

• Evidence of delay or cancellation (such as emails or boarding passes).

3. Keep Records

Save all communication with Ryanair, as well as receipts for any additional expenses incurred due to the delay (e.g., meals, transportation, or accommodation).

4. Be Persistent

If Ryanair rejects your claim but you believe it’s valid, you can escalate the matter. Consider contacting the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) or using a flight compensation service.

Real-Life Example: Delayed Flight Experience

Take John, for instance. He was flying from London Stansted to Barcelona with Ryanair. His flight was delayed by 4.5 hours due to a technical issue with the aircraft. Since the delay exceeded three hours and wasn’t caused by extraordinary circumstances, John submitted a claim through our website. After six weeks, he received £220 in compensation minus fees.

Common Questions About Ryanair Compensation

1. What If I Accept a Voucher Instead of Cash?

Ryanair may offer travel vouchers instead of monetary compensation. While this can be convenient, it’s essential to understand that you’re entitled to cash if you prefer it.

2. Does Compensation Cover Additional Expenses?

EU Regulation 261/2004 requires airlines to provide care during delays or cancellations, including meals, refreshments, and accommodation when necessary. However, this is separate from the compensation amount.

3. What If My Flight Was Part of a Package Holiday?

You’re still entitled to compensation under EU261. However, additional rights may apply under the Package Travel Regulations.

Counterarguments and Limitations

While the EU law is clear, there are nuances to consider:

• Extraordinary Circumstances: Ryanair often cites extraordinary circumstances to deny claims. Passengers should gather as much evidence as possible to counter such arguments.

• Time Limits: Compensation claims must be filed within a specific timeframe, which varies by country. In the UK, the limit is typically six years.

• Shared Responsibility: In some cases, delays might result from shared responsibilities (e.g., airport operations), making it harder to claim.

Expert Insights

According to consumer rights expert Martin Lewis:

“Flight delay compensation is a powerful tool for passengers, but airlines won’t always make it easy. Knowing your rights and staying persistent is key to securing the compensation you deserve.”

Final Thoughts

Experiencing a delayed or cancelled flight can be stressful, but understanding your rights as a Ryanair passenger empowers you to take action. Whether your flight is delayed over three hours or cancelled at short notice, the EU261 regulation ensures you’re compensated fairly.

By following the steps outlined in this guide and staying informed, you’ll be well-equipped to claim what’s owed to you. So, the next time your plans are disrupted, remember: you have options, and Ryanair is obligated to honour them.

Have you experienced a delayed Ryanair flight? If you want to claim you can either fill in our simple application form or  contact us for further assistance with your claim!