A recent newspaper investigation revealed that Europe’s airlines are currently sitting on an estimated €3 billion (£2.5 billion) in unpaid flight delay compensation, with millions of passengers failing to claim the money they are legally entitled to receive.
The report highlights a startling reality: while airlines are required to compensate passengers for many flight delays and cancellations, a significant proportion of eligible travellers never make a claim.
At Bott and Co, we’ve helped hundreds of thousands of passengers recover compensation from airlines, and this latest research confirms just how widespread the issue remains.
Why Are So Many Passengers Missing Out?
According to the article, less than half of all eligible compensation payments have been claimed over the last 15 years.
There are several reasons why:
- Many passengers are unaware they have legal rights when flights are delayed or cancelled.
- Some assume claiming will be too complicated or time-consuming.
- Airlines do not always proactively inform passengers that they may be entitled to compensation.
- Travellers often lose track of old delays and never realise they can still claim.
The result is billions of pounds remaining with airlines instead of being returned to the passengers who experienced the disruption.
Passengers shouldn’t leave money on the table simply because they don’t know their rights. If your flight was delayed or cancelled, take a few minutes to check whether you’re entitled to compensation. You may be surprised by what you’re owed
What Compensation Could You Be Entitled To?
Under UK and European passenger rights regulations, you may be entitled to compensation if:
- Your flight arrived more than three hours late.
- Your flight was cancelled with insufficient notice.
- The disruption was within the airline’s control.
Compensation can be worth up to £520 per passenger, depending on the distance travelled and the length of the delay.
Importantly, compensation is separate from any refunds, hotel costs, meals or alternative travel arrangements provided by the airline.
You Could Still Claim for Historic Flight Delays
One of the most significant findings in the article is that passengers can often claim for flights that took place years ago.
In England and Wales, passengers generally have up to six years to bring a flight compensation claim.
That means many people who experienced delays during recent holidays, business trips or family visits may still be entitled to compensation today.
Making a Flight Delay Claim Doesn’t Need to Be Difficult
While passenger rights are well established, airlines frequently challenge claims or argue that extraordinary circumstances were responsible for the disruption.
This can make the process frustrating for travellers trying to claim on their own.
Bott and Co specialise in flight delay compensation claims and has recovered millions of pounds for passengers since launching its service. Our team handles the legal process on your behalf, dealing directly with airlines and pursuing claims where compensation is due.
Check Your Flight Today
The latest estimate of €3 billion in unclaimed compensation shows that millions of passengers across Europe are still missing out on money they are legally owed.
If your flight was delayed or cancelled, it’s worth checking whether you have a claim.
Our flight delay compensation checker can quickly assess your eligibility and help you start a claim in minutes.
Don’t leave your compensation with the airline.
Check your flight today and find out if you’re owed up to £520 in compensation.