EU261 vs. UK261: Which Flight Compensation Rules Apply?
EU261 and UK261 share a common origin but now operate as separate regimes. Some journeys fall under one, some can touch both, and the operating airline remains central.
What to know
- Departure airport, arrival airport and the operating airline’s registration determine coverage.
- EU261 awards are denominated in euros; UK261 uses sterling amounts.
- A checker is a useful screen, but the operating airline and enforcement body make the final legal assessment.
Typical EU261 coverage
EU261 generally applies to flights departing an EU airport regardless of airline, and flights arriving in the EU from outside the bloc when operated by an EU airline. The framework also extends to Iceland, Norway and Switzerland in relevant contexts.
Typical UK261 coverage
UK261 generally applies to flights departing a UK airport, flights arriving in the UK on a UK or EU airline, and certain flights arriving in the EU on a UK airline. Exact scope can depend on the itinerary, so keep the operating carrier and complete routing handy.
What both systems look at
Both regimes distinguish the right to care from cash compensation, consider the final arrival delay, and allow an extraordinary-circumstances defense. They also provide remedies for qualifying cancellations and involuntary denied boarding.
- Where the disrupted flight departed and arrived
- Which airline actually operated it
- How late you reached the final destination
- When cancellation notice was sent
- The documented cause of the disruption
Where to escalate a claim
Submit to the operating airline first. An unresolved EU claim may go to the relevant national enforcement authority or an available dispute-resolution body. In the UK, an approved ADR provider or the Civil Aviation Authority’s passenger team may be appropriate depending on the airline.
Official sources
Rules change. Confirm your situation with the relevant authority: