Glossary
EU261
Definition: EU261 (EC Regulation 261/2004) is European legislation that entitles air passengers to compensation, care, and assistance when flights departing from or arriving in the EU are delayed, cancelled, or overbooked.
EU261 is one of the strongest passenger rights regulations in the world. It applies to all flights departing from EU/EEA airports (regardless of airline) and to EU-based airline flights arriving in the EU/EEA. Compensation ranges from €250 to €600 per passenger depending on flight distance.
Compensation is payable for: cancellations with less than 14 days’ notice (unless due to extraordinary circumstances), delays of 3+ hours at arrival, and denied boarding due to overbooking. In addition to compensation, airlines must provide care (meals, drinks, accommodation) during long delays.
For business class passengers, EU261 compensation is valuable but the real benefit is the duty of care — airlines must provide hotel accommodation and rebooking on the next available flight. On high-value business class itineraries, knowing your rights under EU261 ensures you receive appropriate treatment during disruptions. BookMyBusinessClass assists clients with EU261 claims when flights are disrupted.