Step by Step: Filing a Flight Compensation Claim
Filing a flight compensation claim does not have to be complicated. Whether your claim falls under US DOT rules or EU261, the process follows the same basic steps. Here is the universal process from start to finish.
Step 1: Determine Which Rules Apply
The first step is identifying which passenger protection framework covers your flight. The two main systems are US DOT rules (flights to/from the US) and EU261/UK261 (flights involving EU/UK airports or carriers).
Multiple rules can apply to the same flight. A flight from Paris to New York on Air France is covered by both EU261 and DOT rules. Not sure which applies? Check your flight and we determine the applicable rules automatically.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
- ›
Booking confirmation with your name, flight details, and booking reference.
- ›
Boarding pass (physical or digital).
- ›
Cancellation or delay notification from the airline (email, SMS, or app screenshot).
- ›
Expense receipts for meals, hotel, or transport during the disruption.
- ›
Bank details for receiving payment (IBAN for EU claims).
Missing some documents? You can still file. Airlines can look up your booking with just your name and travel date. Flight tracking sites like FlightAware verify delays independently. See our documents guide for what to include.
Step 3: File Your Claim
- 1
For DOT refunds: Contact the airline directly and request a cash refund, citing the DOT final rule.
- 2
For EU261: Submit through the airline's EU261 claim form, citing EU Regulation 261/2004 by name.
- 3
State the exact compensation amount based on your situation.
- 4
Include all supporting documents.
- 5
Save the confirmation and note any reference numbers.
For EU261 claim letters, use our template with the right legal citations. For a complete refund walkthrough, see our airline refund guide.
Step 4: Wait and Follow Up
Allow the airline time to respond: 7 to 20 days for DOT refunds, 6 to 8 weeks for EU261 claims. If the airline does not respond within the expected timeframe, send a follow-up citing your original reference number.
Step 5: Escalate If Needed
- 1
DOT complaint at transportation.gov/airconsumer for US flight issues.
- 2
NEB complaint at the National Enforcement Body in the EU departure country.
- 3
UK CAA complaint at caa.co.uk for UK departures.
- 4
Credit card chargeback if you paid by card and the airline refuses a valid refund.
- 5
Small claims court as a last resort for larger amounts.
Alternatively, let TravelStacks handle it. We manage the entire process from filing to escalation. $19 flat fee for US claims, 25% for EU261/UK261 claims (only if you win).