✈️ Ryanair delayed flight: when it happens and what you can get as a passenger
One of the most frustrating situations for air travelers is suddenly being stuck at the airport due to a delay. Maybe the flight was scheduled on time, you had planned everything down to the last detail, but suddenly the board changes: “DELAYED”. If you’re flying with Ryanair – one of the most used low-cost airlines in Europe – chances are you’ve already experienced something similar, especially in the summer months, when traffic volumes increase exponentially.
Yet, few passengers are really aware of the rights that protect them in these cases. In some scenarios, a prolonged delay is not just an inconvenience: it can turn into an opportunity to receive financial compensation of up to €600. In this article we explain when and why Ryanair delays happen, what you can do, and how to get compensation, even with the support of a claim company like DelayFlight24.
When and why Ryanair flights may be delayed
Ryanair operates hundreds of routes every day across Europe, and although punctuality is one of their stated goals, it’s not uncommon for flights to suffer significant delays. Causes may vary, but the most common include:
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Technical problems or extraordinary aircraft maintenance.
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Mismanaged crew rotation or missing crew at arrival.
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Bad weather: thunderstorms, strong winds, fog, or other conditions limiting visibility.
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Airport congestion, especially in high season or at busy hubs like London Stansted, Bergamo, Ciampino.
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Domino delays, when the plane arrives late from a previous route.
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Operational issues of the airline or coordination problems with the airport operator.
It’s important to know that not all delays entitle you to compensation. But if you arrive at your destination more than 3 hours late, you may be entitled to compensation, provided the cause is not exceptional.
What the law says: EU Regulation 261/2004
European Regulation EC 261/2004 protects air passengers in cases of:
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Prolonged delay
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Flight cancellation
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Denied boarding due to overbooking
In the event of a delay of more than 3 hours, you can obtain:
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€250 for flights under 1,500 km
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€400 for flights between 1,500 and 3,500 km
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€600 for flights over 3,500 km (outside the EU)
Important: No compensation is due if the delay is caused by exceptional circumstances such as extreme weather, bird strike, medical emergencies on board, or air traffic control strikes. However, if the cause is under Ryanair’s control, such as technical failures or internal issues, then the airline must compensate you.
What to do if your Ryanair flight is delayed
If you’re at the airport and your flight is delayed, here are the steps to follow:
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Ask for official explanations at the info desk or through Ryanair’s digital channels.
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Keep every document: boarding pass, receipts, official communications.
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Check the actual arrival time (not the departure time).
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If the delay exceeds 2 hours, ask for assistance: water, meals, and two phone calls (or emails).
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If the delay exceeds 3 hours and is not due to exceptional circumstances, consider claiming compensation.
How to obtain compensation: rely on DelayFlight24
Many passengers don’t file a claim because they think it’s long, complicated, or expensive. This is where a service like DelayFlight24 comes in, simplifying the entire process in just a few steps:
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Enter the flight date and number for a free check.
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If you are entitled to compensation, they take care of everything, including any legal actions.
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Check now if you are entitled to a Ryanair compensation.
By relying on DelayFlight24, you don’t need to worry about writing letters, negotiating with Ryanair, or knowing the regulations: they handle everything for you.
Conclusion: your time matters, even at the airport
Being a victim of a flight delay is one of today’s most common (and annoying) travel experiences. But you’re not powerless: if Ryanair caused an avoidable delay, you have full right to be compensated. Don’t let bureaucracy discourage you: with the help of DelayFlight24, you can turn a tiring day at the airport into a small refund that repays – at least partly – your lost time.
Don’t wait too long: you have up to 2 years to claim, but doing it right away is always better.
