Flight delays and cancellations with United Airlines can seriously disrupt travel plans—but knowing your rights can reduce the financial and emotional impact. Whether you’re dealing with missed connections or overnight layovers, compensation may be available depending on the circumstances and applicable legal framework. This guide explains what you’re entitled to and how to effectively claim it under U.S., EU, and international regulations.
What Are Your Rights If Your United Airlines Flight Is Delayed or Cancelled?
Passenger rights vary depending on the country of departure, international agreements, and airline-specific policies.
U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Regulations
The U.S. DOT requires airlines like United to provide:
- A full refund if your flight is canceled and you choose not to travel.
- A refund if there is a significant schedule change or delay and you decline the alternative.
However, U.S. law does not mandate cash compensation for delays or cancellations unless overbooking occurs.
EC 261/2004 (European Union)
United Airlines flights departing from an EU airport fall under EC 261 regulation—even though United is not an EU carrier. Under this rule, you may claim:
- €250 for flights up to 1,500 km
- €400 for flights between 1,500–3,500 km
- €600 for flights over 3,500 km
Compensation applies if:
- You arrive more than 3 hours late
- The delay or cancellation was not caused by extraordinary circumstances
- You were informed less than 14 days before departure
The Montreal Convention
For international itineraries, the Montreal Convention applies. This treaty allows passengers to claim up to 1288 Special Drawing Rights (about $1,700) for delay-related financial damage. You must show actual losses (e.g., hotel costs, missed tours) and that the airline was responsible.
When Does United Airlines Offer Compensation for Delays?
United Airlines provides compensation voluntarily in certain cases, or when obligated by law. The airline may offer:
- Travel vouchers or airline credit
- Meal vouchers during airport delays
- Hotel accommodations and ground transport for overnight delays
However, cash compensation is generally only required under EC 261 or the Montreal Convention.
What Counts as a “Significant Delay”?
A significant delay generally means:
- A delay of 3+ hours at the final destination (EC 261 standard)
- Missed connections due to late arrival
- Delay caused by airline-controlled issues (mechanical problems, crew shortages)
When Are You Not Entitled to Compensation?
United is not obligated to pay compensation when delays are caused by:
- Severe weather
- Political instability or security threats
- Airport or air traffic control strikes (outside United’s control)
- Natural disasters
These are classified as “extraordinary circumstances” under EC 261 and as force majeure under international conventions.
What Compensation Can You Claim for Flight Delays?
Depending on jurisdiction and cause, compensation can include:
- Under EC 261:
- €250–€600 cash depending on flight distance and delay duration
- Under U.S. rules:
- Meal or hotel vouchers
- Rebooking on the next available flight
- Refund if delay leads to canceled travel plans
Note: United may also offer a travel credit or miles as a goodwill gesture, though this is not mandatory.
What Are Your Rights If United Airlines Cancels Your Flight?
Flight cancellations are subject to stricter rules, especially in the EU.
Rebooking Obligations
United must offer:
- A new flight on United or a partner airline
- Ground transportation to another airport if necessary
- A full refund if you choose not to be rebooked
United may also rebook you on another carrier via interline agreements if no immediate United flights are available.
What Compensation Is Available?
Under EC 261:
If you’re informed less than 14 days before departure, you’re entitled to:
- €250 (flights ≤1,500 km)
- €400 (1,500–3,500 km)
- €600 (≥3,500 km)
Under U.S. DOT:
You’re entitled to:
- A full refund (including checked baggage and optional services)
- No cash compensation unless denied boarding due to overbooking
How Can You File a Compensation Claim with United Airlines?
Step-by-Step Claim Process
- Go to the United Airlines customer service portal for refunds
- Select the appropriate form (refund, reimbursement, or feedback).
- Attach all necessary documents:
- Booking confirmation or e-ticket number
- Boarding pass
- Receipts for out-of-pocket expenses
- Proof of delay or cancellation (emails, screenshots)
How Long Do You Have to File?
- EU flights (EC 261): Deadlines vary by country (2 years in the Netherlands, 3 in Germany).
- U.S. DOT: No strict deadline, but it’s advised to claim within 60 days of the incident.
Can You Use a Third Party to Claim Compensation?
Yes, third-party claim services like AirHelp, ClaimCompass, or FlightRight can manage your case, especially for EC 261 claims. However:
- They charge 25%–35% commission on successful claims.
- They handle all communication with the airline.
- Legal escalation is offered if United refuses the claim.
You can also pursue legal remedies independently through:
- U.S. small claims court (for domestic delays)
- EU National Enforcement Bodies (for EC 261 disputes)
- U.S. DOT consumer complaints page
What Documents and Evidence Should You Keep?
Always retain:
- E-ticket or itinerary
- Boarding pass
- Receipts for meals, taxis, hotels
- Flight delay notices or cancellation emails
- Screenshots of departure boards and gate announcements
- Correspondence with airline staff
These support your claim and increase approval chances.
How Long Does It Take to Get Compensation from United Airlines?
- Typical processing time: 30–60 days
- Complex cases or international claims may take longer
- If no response within 2 months, escalate to:
- U.S. DOT for U.S. departures
- National Enforcement Bodies for EU flights
- Small claims court (if claim is below local threshold)
What Are the Most Common Reasons United Airlines Denies Compensation?
United may deny claims if:
- The delay or cancellation was caused by weather
- The issue involved airport staff, customs, or immigration delays
- You missed check-in or boarding deadlines
- You provided incorrect passenger details or failed to show up
Appealing such decisions is possible, especially under EC 261 or with legal support.
Which Flights Are Covered by EC 261/2004 Regulation?
You are eligible if:
- Your flight departs from an EU airport, regardless of airline
- Your flight arrives in the EU on an EU-based carrier (not applicable to United unless operating a codeshare with an EU carrier)
Example:
- United Airlines flight from Amsterdam to Newark = covered
- United Airlines flight from Newark to Amsterdam = not covered
Compensation Amounts Based on Flight Distance and Delay Duration
| Flight Distance | Delay Duration | EC 261 Compensation |
| ≤ 1,500 km | ≥ 3 hours | €250 |
| 1,500–3,500 km | ≥ 3 hours | €400 |
| ≥ 3,500 km | 3–4 hours | €300 |
| ≥ 3,500 km | > 4 hours | €600 |
United may reduce compensation by 50% if the delay is between 3–4 hours and an alternative flight is provided.
Tips to Maximize Your Compensation Success
- Always ask airline staff for written confirmation of the delay or cancellation.
- Note the actual arrival time, not departure time.
- Mention EC 261/2004 or Montreal Convention explicitly in your claim.
- Keep all receipts and documentation.
- Stay calm and professional when dealing with staff or agents.
FAQs About United Airlines Delay and Cancellation Compensation
Can I get both a refund and compensation?
Yes, if eligible under EC 261 or the Montreal Convention. Refunds cover the ticket; compensation covers inconvenience.
What if I missed a connecting flight due to delay?
You’re entitled to rebooking or compensation if both legs were under a single booking.
Does travel insurance cover delays?
Most policies include coverage for delays beyond 6 hours, but limits and conditions apply.
How long can United legally delay a flight?
There is no strict time limit under U.S. law. EC 261 applies compensation after 3+ hours of delay.