Flight delayed 3 hours or more — what you can ask for

Updated 2026-10-01

Under EU261 you can choose a refund within 7 days or re-routing at the earliest opportunity, and the airline must provide meals while you wait. You may also be owed up to €400 per passenger unless the cause was extraordinary.

What happenedYour optionsCareCompensation
Arriving 3+ hours late
  • Wait for the delayed flight; the airline must look after you once the care threshold is reached.
  • Meals and refreshments in reasonable relation to the waiting time (ask for vouchers).
  • Two free phone calls, emails or messages.
€0–€400 per passenger

Say this at the desk

"Under EU Regulation 261/2004, I am entitled to meals and refreshments while I wait – please give me vouchers."

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Sources: Regulation (EC) No 261/2004 · European Commission – Air passenger rights

Advice only, not legal advice. We never change your booking and never take a share of your compensation. Last verified 2026-10-01.