Rory Poulter

Passengers affected by flight delays or cancellations may be entitled to food, drink, communications access, accommodation, transport, a refund or an alternative flight, depending on the circumstances and length of the disruption. Delays of at least five hours allow passengers to decline travel and seek a refund. Compensation of up to £520 may apply when disruption is within the airline’s control, but bad weather is generally considered outside that control and usually does not qualify for compensation. Travellers should contact the operating airline, retain receipts and records, and consider alternative dispute resolution or the Civil Aviation Authority if a valid claim is rejected.