What happens if my first flight is delayed and I miss my connecting flight in the UK?

Navigating Flight Delays and Missed Connections in the UK: A Guide for Passengers

Air travel can be an exhilarating experience, but unexpected delays can cast a shadow over your journey. When your initial flight is delayed and you miss your connecting flight within the UK, it can be a frustrating and confusing situation. However, under the EU regulation 261, airlines have a clear responsibility to mitigate the inconvenience caused by such disruptions.

Your Rights as a Passenger

EU regulation 261 establishes a set of rights for passengers who experience flight delays or cancellations. If your first flight is delayed, resulting in you missing your connecting flight, you are entitled to the following complimentary care:

• Meals and refreshments: The airline must provide you with meals and refreshments proportionate to the delay time.
• Communication facilities: The airline must offer access to communication facilities, such as phone calls, emails, and internet, to help you stay connected with loved ones.
• Rebooking: The airline must rebook you onto the next available flight to your final destination, at no additional cost.

Maximizing Your Compensation

In addition to the complimentary care, you may also be eligible for compensation under EU regulation 261. The amount of compensation depends on the length of the delay and the distance of your flight, as follows:

• For flights up to 1,500 kilometers: €250
• For flights between 1,500 and 3,500 kilometers: €400
• For flights over 3,500 kilometers: €600

Filing a Claim

To claim compensation, you should contact the airline responsible for the delay as soon as possible. You will need to provide proof of your flight delay and missed connection. The airline will typically respond within 28 days of receiving your claim.

Stay Informed

It’s important to stay informed about the status of your delayed flight. Check the airline’s website or app for real-time updates. You can also monitor the progress of your rebooked flight to ensure you don’t miss it.

Remember, as a passenger, you have rights when your flight is delayed or canceled. By understanding your entitlements under EU regulation 261, you can navigate the disruption with confidence and ensure that the airline meets its obligations to you.