Claim Calculator: quickly calculate Compensation for Flights EC 261/2004
A claim calculator is an online tool that allows passengers to estimate, in just a few clicks, the amount of compensation they are entitled to in case of delay, cancellation, or denied boarding on a flight, based on Regulation EC 261/2004. By entering essential details — airline, flight number, departure and arrival airports, flight date, and length of the delay upon arrival — the tool automatically applies the tables set by European legislation, calculating compensation amounts ranging from €250 up to €600, depending on the route distance and the extent of the disruption suffered.
In addition to calculating monetary compensation, some claim calculators allow you to record the assistance received at the airport (meal vouchers, drinks, accommodation) and subtract such amounts from the total due, thus providing a net estimate of the remaining refund. The process is generally free and only takes a few seconds: once the estimated figure is obtained, the user can choose to proceed independently by submitting the formal request to the airline or to rely on a specialised service, which handles the legal procedures in exchange for a commission applied only if the refund is actually obtained. In short, a claim calculator is a practical and immediate aid for understanding passenger rights and planning subsequent complaint actions.
How is it used?
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use the claim calculator to estimate compensation for a delayed flight under Regulation EC 261/2004:
- Choose the platform
There are several websites and apps that offer free claim calculators; you just need to visit their official site.
- Enter flight details
- Airline (e.g., Ryanair)
- Flight number (e.g., FR1234)
- Flight date
- Departure and arrival airports
- Specify the delay experienced
Usually, you are asked to provide:
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Hours of delay at actual arrival
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Whether the flight was cancelled or rebooked on another flight
These elements determine whether you are entitled only to meal vouchers/assistance or also to financial compensation.
- Provide any additional details
Some calculators ask if you received assistance at the airport (meals, drinks, calls, hotel), as this affects how much you have already been compensated “in kind” and thus the remaining amount due.
- Start the calculation
Click on the “Calculate” (or “Get Compensation”) button. The tool will automatically apply the EU tables:
- €250 for flights up to 1,500 km
- €400 for intra-EU flights over 1,500 km and for flights between 1,500 and 3,500 km
- €600 for flights over 3,500 km
- View the estimated amount
In just a few seconds, you’ll see the amount you might be entitled to. For example, a 3-hour delay on a Rome–Barcelona flight (≈ 1,100 km) entitles you to €250.
- Decide whether to proceed with the claim
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Do it yourself: download the EC 261 form and send it directly to the airline; the calculator often also provides a pre-filled letter template.
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Turnkey service: if you choose to be assisted by the platform (e.g., DelayFlight24), they will take care of the legal procedures in exchange for a commission (usually 25% of the recovered amount).
- Track the process
Once started, the website allows you to track the status of your claim: received, under negotiation, in legal proceedings (if necessary), and finally settled.
⚠️ Useful tips
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Keep a copy of your boarding pass and booking confirmation at hand.
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If you have official airline communications (emails/SMS) about the delay or cancellation, upload them in the form: they speed up the process.
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Airline response times may vary from a few weeks to several months: in the meantime, the calculator helps you estimate when and how much you may receive.
By following these simple steps, you can quickly assess your right to compensation and choose the option most convenient for you!
