How to Request Compensation for a Flight Delay
Your flight was delayed and you may be entitled to compensation. Airlines will not offer it unless you ask. Here is how.
Formal Compensation Request
RecommendedDear [Airline] Customer Relations, I am writing to request compensation for a significant flight delay. Flight Details: - Booking Reference: [Number] - Flight Number: [Number] - Route: [Origin] to [Destination] - Scheduled Departure: [Date and Time] - Actual Departure: [Date and Time] - Delay Duration: [X hours] - Passenger(s): [Name(s)] The delay of [X hours] caused [missed connection / lost hotel night / missed event / additional expenses of $X]. [If EU flight: Under EU Regulation 261/2004, I am entitled to compensation of EUR [250/400/600] for a delay of this duration on this route distance.] [If US flight: Per DOT guidelines, I am requesting appropriate compensation for the disruption.] I have retained receipts for additional expenses incurred due to this delay totaling $[amount], which I have attached. Please confirm receipt and advise on next steps. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Frequent Flyer Number if applicable]
Subject Line
Compensation Request - Flight [Number] - [Date]
Alternative Versions
More Direct Version
directDear [Airline], Flight [Number] on [Date] was delayed [X hours], causing [impact]. I am requesting compensation per [DOT / EU261] regulations. Booking: [Reference]. Receipts attached. [Your Name]
Warmer Version
warmDear [Airline] Customer Relations, I understand flight operations can be unpredictable, and I appreciate your crew's efforts. However, the [X-hour] delay on Flight [Number] caused significant disruption including [missed connection / expenses]. I would appreciate compensation as outlined in [applicable regulation]. I have attached my receipts and booking details. Thank you for your understanding. [Your Name]
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When to Use This
Send this when: - Your flight was delayed by 3+ hours - The delay was the airline's fault (not weather) - You incurred additional expenses - You want cash compensation, not just a voucher
What Not to Say
Avoid: - Not documenting the delay and expenses - Accepting the first offer if it is too low - Missing the filing deadline - Being unclear about what compensation you want - Forgetting to save your boarding pass and booking confirmation