Ryanair flight delay compensation: claim up to €600
Ryanair is Europe's largest airline, and with that volume come plenty of delays and cancellations. The good news: as an EU airline, Ryanair flights are squarely covered by EU261, and you can be owed up to €600 — at no cost to claim. Here is what you are entitled to and how to get it.
By the Libravo editorial team · Updated 14 June 2026
Am I owed compensation for a delayed Ryanair flight?
Ryanair is an EU (Irish) airline, so EU261 covers its flights departing any EU or EEA airport, as well as flights into the EU on Ryanair aircraft. If your flight arrived at its final destination three or more hours late, you are likely entitled to compensation — unless Ryanair can show the delay was caused by extraordinary circumstances genuinely outside its control.
How much is Ryanair delay compensation?
The amount is fixed by flight distance, not by what you paid: €250 for flights up to 1,500 km, €400 for flights between 1,500 and 3,500 km, and €600 for longer flights. Most Ryanair routes are short or medium haul, so claims are usually €250 or €400. For flights departing the UK, the equivalent UK261 amounts are £220, £350 and £520.
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What if Ryanair cancelled your flight?
If Ryanair cancelled and told you less than 14 days before departure, you may be owed the same compensation as a delay, on top of your right to a full refund or a re-routing. If they gave you 14 days notice or more, compensation is not due, but you can still choose a refund or an alternative flight.
When can Ryanair refuse to pay?
Airlines do not have to pay when a disruption is caused by genuinely extraordinary circumstances — severe weather, air-traffic-control restrictions or strikes, security risks, or political instability. Problems within Ryanair's own control, such as most technical faults or crew shortages, are not extraordinary, and compensation is still due.
How do you claim compensation from Ryanair?
Submit a written claim through Ryanair's customer-relations channel, quoting Regulation (EC) 261/2004, your flight details and the amount you are owed, and keep a record. If Ryanair refuses or ignores you, you can escalate for free to the relevant national enforcement body or an ADR scheme. Our free guide includes a ready-to-use claim-letter template.
How long do you have to claim?
Time limits vary by country — often around three years, and up to six years for flights departing the UK. Claim as soon as you can.
Frequently asked questions
How much compensation can I get from Ryanair?
Between €250 and €600 depending on the flight distance, or £220 to £520 for flights leaving the UK. It is a fixed amount set by law, not based on your ticket price.
Does Ryanair pay compensation for a 3 hour delay?
Yes. If your Ryanair flight arrives at its final destination three or more hours late and the cause was within the airline's control, you are entitled to compensation under EU261.
Is it free to claim from Ryanair?
Yes. Claiming directly from Ryanair is free and you keep the full amount. Claims services are optional and take a percentage only if they succeed.
How long do I have to claim Ryanair compensation?
It depends on the country, but commonly around three years, and up to six years for UK departures.
Ready to claim?
Use our free step-by-step guide with a claim-letter template, or check your flight first.
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General information based on Regulation (EC) 261/2004 and its UK retained version, not legal advice. Libravo is not affiliated with any airline.