United Airlines: Refunds, Reimbursement, and Compensation for Delayed and Canceled Flights
When faced with the inconvenience of a delayed or canceled United Airlines flight, the standard apology often falls short. However, for departures within Europe, there's a silver lining, exploring the realm of possibilities for reimbursement and flight compensation from the airline under the umbrella of EC 261.
Discover the potential for United Airlines compensation for flight delays or cancellations, specifically tailored to European flights. The EC 261 law opens avenues for passengers to not only secure a full refund for their flight ticket but also to claim airline compensation of up to $650 (€600) per person in certain circumstances.
Even in the case of a canceled or delayed US domestic United Airlines flight, you have a range of rights. For example, you will find that refunds, rebooking on other flights, the right to assistance—which can also include hotel accommodation—and, in some cases, forms of compensation are provided: even when you are flying within the United States!
According to our data on United Airlines’s recent flights, there were 28257 departures over 24 hours, and 89.72% departed on time.
All airlines
All countries
No Win, No Fee
United Airlines Flight Delay Compensation: Know Your Rights under EC261
If you've experienced a delayed United Airlines flight departing from a European airport, it's essential to explore the possibility of claiming flight delay compensation from United Airlines. According to EU regulations, flights delayed by 3 hours or more may entitle passengers to flight compensation of up to $650 per person from the airline.
Certain exclusions apply, particularly in cases of United Airlines flight delays caused by extraordinary circumstances beyond the airline's control. Examples include delays due to inclement weather or air traffic control strikes. In these instances, the airline is not obligated to provide compensation, as such delays are considered outside of their control.
However, suppose the delay is within the airline's control, such as a strike by United Airlines staff or a maintenance issue. In that case, you have the right to file a claim for United Airlines compensation for delayed flights. This ensures that you are appropriately compensated for the inconvenience caused by controllable factors. Familiarize yourself with your rights and take the necessary steps to claim the compensation you deserve.
How many United Airlines flights were delayed today?
Our data shows that,over a 24-hour period, there were 171 United Airlines flights delayed by over 3 hours.
0.60% of domestic flights and 0.61% of international flights were delayed over 3 hours.
Passengers who arrive at their destination over 3 hours late could be entitled to compensation. Check here.
All airlines
All countries
No Win, No Fee
United Airlines Flight Cancellation: Guide to Compensation under EC261
Despite United Airlines not being a European carrier, its operations within Europe are governed by European regulations. This is particularly advantageous for passengers facing the inconvenience of a flight cancellation, as last-minute cancellations of European departures may make them eligible for substantial United Airlines flight compensation.
In the event of a United Airlines flight cancellation, passengers are typically offered an alternative flight to their destination or the option of a full refund. However, under EU laws, if the cancellation occurs less than 14 days before the scheduled departure from a European airport, affected passengers may be entitled to compensation for canceled flights from United Airlines of up to $650 per person.
Flight disruption: check-list for making a claim
Boarding passes with flight number
Booking confirmation
Alternative transportation tickets
Vouchers
Documents of additional costs
Photos with timestamp of flight board or screen
If possible, written confirmation / statements from the airline regarding the reasons for the flight delay

When Are You Entitled to Compensation? Use Our Calculator
United Airlines may be exempt from airline cancellation compensation obligations if it provides a reasonable alternative flight with a similar arrival time to the original. Additionally, extraordinary circumstances, beyond the airline's control, such as severe weather, a medical emergency, or disruptive events at the airport, may also exempt them from compensation requirements.
We recommend utilizing our free compensation calculator to determine if you qualify for United Airlines compensation for a canceled flight, especially considering these exceptions. This tool simplifies the process, allowing you to easily assess your eligibility and potential compensation amount, ensuring you are well-informed and empowered in seeking what you are owed.
We enforce your rights as a consumer
Compensation calculator
Find out your expected compensation
$270
up to 1,500 km
$430
1,500 - 3,500 km
$650
from 3,500 km
How many United Airlines flights were cancelled today?
Recent data shows United Airlines cancelled 47 over 24 hours.
0.08% of domestic flights and 0.64% of international flights were cancelled.
Was your flight cancelled less than 14 days before you were due to fly? You could be owed up to $650 (€600) compensation. Check here.
Which United Airlines Flights are Covered by EC 261?
The coverage under EC 261 extends to all passengers on flights departing from a European airport. However, as a non-European airline, United Airlines is exempt from EC 261 flight compensation obligations when operating flights outside of Europe or even on flights to Europe originating from airports outside the EU.
When a United Airlines flight departs from a European airport or is within the EU, passengers are entitled to the protections outlined in EC 261. This includes the right to compensation for flight delays, cancellations, and overbookings, ensuring that passengers are treated fairly and receive appropriate care during disruptions.
Below is a table detailing which United Airlines flights are covered by EC 261 regulations:
United Airlines | Covered by EC 261 |
---|---|
Flights departing EU airports | ✔️ Yes |
Flights arriving at EU airports | ❌ No |
How Much United Airlines Compensation Are You Entitled To?
Distance | Compensation |
---|---|
All flights under 1,500 km | Up to €250 per person |
Internal EU flights over 1,500 km | Up to €400 per person |
Non-internal EU flights between 1,500 - 3,500 km | Up to €400 per person |
Non-internal EU flights over 3,500 km | Up to €600 per person |
EC 261 ensures that all paying passengers, regardless of nationality, age, or ticket cost, are treated equally in terms of compensation amounts. The values in euros are specified by EC 261, emphasizing fairness and consistency.
As with any legal framework, there are exceptions and special circumstances that can impact the flight compensation amount. To simplify the process of determining what you are owed, AirHelp provides a free compensation calculator to navigate the complexities and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Claim up to $650 in compensation if your flight has been delayed, cancelled, or overbooked within the last 3 years.
All airlines
All countries
No Win, No Fee
United Airlines US Domestic Flights: Rights & Compensation
No regulations require airlines to financially compensate passengers for domestic flights in the US that are delayed or canceled. However, you may be entitled to a refund, and some airlines offer certain forms of compensation. Additionally, assistance is usually provided, including rebooking on the next available flight, meal vouchers, and hotel accommodation in the event of an overnight cancellation. Let's take a detailed look at your rights in the case of delayed or canceled United Airlines domestic flights.
Right to a Refund
In cases of a delayed or canceled United Airlines flight, you may be entitled to a ticket refund:
Delayed flight: If your flight is significantly delayed, you are entitled to a refund from the airline if you choose not to fly. There is no general definition of a "significant delay," as it is determined on a case-by-case basis.
Canceled flight: Regardless of the reason for the cancellation, you are entitled to a refund if you choose not to travel.
Refunds may also be provided for the class of service and optional service fees.
What Are Your Entitlements for United Airlines Delays or Cancellations?
Here is a summary of your entitlements for United Airlines delays or cancellations, as indicated by the Department of Transportation (DOT):
Commitments | In Case of Cancellation | In Case of Delay |
---|---|---|
Rebook on the same airline | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Rebook on a partner airline | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Meal or meal cash/voucher | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Hotel (overnight cancellation/delay) | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Transportation to and from the hotel | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Cash compensation | ❌ | ❌ |
Credit/travel voucher | ❌ | ❌ |
Frequent flyer miles | ❌ | ❌ |
If Your Plane is Delayed on the Tarmac
There are clear laws on your rights if your plane is delayed on the tarmac. These entitle you to information, food, and water. You can read exactly what they cover here.
Flight Statistics: United Airlines delays and cancellations
**United Airlines On-time Performance (24 hours):**
Total flights: 28257
Flights on time: 25351
On time rate: approximately 89.72% of all flights were punctual
Long delays (over 3 hours): 171
Flight cancellations: 47
Flight numbers shown are estimates, based on internal databases and third parties.
About United Airlines
United Airlines, established in 1926, is a major American airline with a vast fleet of over 800 aircraft. It operates flights to around 340 destinations in 48 countries, making it one of the world's most extensive airline networks. United is known for its customer-centric approach, offering a range of classes and services to suit various travel needs. With a commitment to innovation, safety, and environmental responsibility, United Airlines remains a top choice for travelers seeking reliability and comfort in their air travel.
Contact Information
Website: united.com Customer Service: 1-800-864-8331 MileagePlus Program: 1-800-421-4655
Know more about your rights
Recent delays and cancellations
Date | Flight number | Airline | Route | Status | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
04/15/2025 | 10:05 PM | UA1571 | United Airlines | Houston (IAH) Orlando (MCO) | Canceled | Check Compensation |
04/15/2025 | 9:25 PM | AC8994 | Air Canada | Toronto (YYZ) New York (LGA) | Canceled | Check Compensation |
04/15/2025 | 7:55 PM | AD4390 | Azul Airlines | São Paulo (GRU) Curitiba (CWB) | Canceled | Check Compensation |
04/15/2025 | 7:35 PM | UA3601 | United Airlines | Washington (IAD) Indianapolis (IND) | Delayed | Check Compensation |
04/15/2025 | 7:10 PM | UA4576 | United Airlines | Philadelphia (PHL) Washington (IAD) | Delayed | Check Compensation |
04/15/2025 | 7:10 PM | UA4576 | United Airlines | Philadelphia (PHL) Washington (IAD) | Delayed | Check Compensation |
04/15/2025 | 7:10 PM | UA4576 | United Airlines | Philadelphia (PHL) Washington (IAD) | Delayed | Check Compensation |
04/15/2025 | 6:54 PM | UA4291 | United Airlines | Buffalo (BUF) Washington (IAD) | Delayed | Check Compensation |
04/15/2025 | 6:54 PM | UA4291 | United Airlines | Buffalo (BUF) Washington (IAD) | Delayed | Check Compensation |
04/15/2025 | 6:54 PM | UA4291 | United Airlines | Buffalo (BUF) Washington (IAD) | Delayed | Check Compensation |
- Canceled
UA1571
•United Airlines
Houston
••Orlando
IAH
MCO
Check Compensation04/15/2025
10:05 PM
- Canceled
AC8994
•Air Canada
Toronto
••New York
YYZ
LGA
Check Compensation04/15/2025
9:25 PM
- Canceled
AD4390
•Azul Airlines
São Paulo
••Curitiba
GRU
CWB
Check Compensation04/15/2025
7:55 PM
- Delayed
UA3601
•United Airlines
Washington
••Indianapolis
IAD
IND
Check Compensation04/15/2025
7:35 PM
- Delayed
UA4576
•United Airlines
Philadelphia
••Washington
PHL
IAD
Check Compensation04/15/2025
7:10 PM
- Delayed
UA4576
•United Airlines
Philadelphia
••Washington
PHL
IAD
Check Compensation04/15/2025
7:10 PM
- Delayed
UA4576
•United Airlines
Philadelphia
••Washington
PHL
IAD
Check Compensation04/15/2025
7:10 PM
- Delayed
UA4291
•United Airlines
Buffalo
••Washington
BUF
IAD
Check Compensation04/15/2025
6:54 PM
- Delayed
UA4291
•United Airlines
Buffalo
••Washington
BUF
IAD
Check Compensation04/15/2025
6:54 PM
- Delayed
UA4291
•United Airlines
Buffalo
••Washington
BUF
IAD
Check Compensation04/15/2025
6:54 PM
AirHelp has been featured in: