Get Compensation for American Airlines Flight Delays/Cancellations

American Airlines Flight Delayed or Cancelled?

If your American Airlines flight was scheduled to depart from an EU airport and was delayed or cancelled, you may be entitled to compensation under EU Regulation EC 261/2004.

Check your rights and file your claim today.

Here is an ultimate guide to claiming compensation for American Airlines flight delays, cancellations, and denied boarding incidents under EU Regulation EC 261/2004.

What Are Your Compensation Rights Under EC 261 with American Airlines?

Navigating the complexities of air travel can be challenging, especially when faced with unexpected delays. Understanding your rights to compensation for American Airlines flight delays or cancellations can significantly alleviate the stress and ensure you receive the compensation to which you are entitled.

Passenger Rights Under EU Regulation 261/2004

If you are flying with American Airlines on a route that departs from an EU airport, you are protected under EU Regulation 261/2004. This regulation requires American Airlines to provide compensation for flight delays, cancellations, and denied boarding.

Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know

    • Delay Duration: If your American Airlines flight is delayed by more than 3 hours, you may be eligible for American Airlines delay compensation.
    • Compensation Amount: The compensation can range from €250 to €600, depending on the flight distance.
    • Exceptional Circumstances: Compensation is not provided if the delay is due to extraordinary circumstances beyond the airline’s control, such as severe weather or airport strikes.

American Airlines’ Policies on Flight Delays or Cancellations

American Airlines flight cancellations and delays are handled under specific policies. Knowing these can help you navigate your options:

  • Notification and Assistance: American Airlines must inform passengers promptly about flight delays and provide updates on departure times.
  • Meal Vouchers and Accommodation: For significant delays, American Airlines delayed flight compensation may           include meal vouchers, accommodation, and transport.
  • Rebooking Options: In case of long delays, American Airlines cancels flight policies and allows rebooking on an             alternative flight at no extra cost.

If your American Airlines flight was canceled or American Airlines flights were canceled at the last minute, you may still have rights to compensation. Stay informed to claim what you deserve!

Was your flight delayed for more than 3 hours?

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When are you eligible for compensation at American Airlines?

Under EC Regulation 261/2004, passengers are entitled to compensation if their flight is delayed, cancelled, or overbooked. Here’s a breakdown of eligibility criteria:

  • Flight Delay: If your American Airlines flight departing from an EU airport is delayed by more than three hours.
  • Flight Cancellation: If you were not informed about flight cancellations less than 14 days before departure time
  • Missed Connection: If you miss your American Airlines connecting flight due to a delay or cancellation of your first flight, you arrive at your final destination over three hours late.
  • Overbooking: If you are denied boarding due to overbooking on an American Airlines flight departing from an EU airport and arriving at your final destination more than three hours late.
  • Not an Extraordinary Circumstance: Delay or Cancellation shouldn’t be due to extraordinary circumstances or something beyond the airline’s control.

How Much Can You Claim For American Airlines Delays?

The amount of compensation for American Airlines’ delayed flight is between 250€ to 600€. It depends upon the travel distance and the length of the delay.

Flight Distance Compensation Amount
Short distance (up to 1500 km) €250
Medium distance (1501 to 3500 km) €400
Long-distance (more than 3500 km) €600*

* The amount may be reduced by 50%, i.e., you may get up to 300€ for a distance of over 3500 km if EU borders were not crossed.

Your Flight Has Been Delayed or Canceled. What Should You Do?

w

Ask a reason for the delay

Ask the airline for the reason behind the delay. Get confirmation in writing from the airlines’ customer service.
l

Note Arrival Time

Note the flights’ arrival time, i.e., when the aircraft door was opened and passengers were allowed to step out.
i

Collect Evidence

Collect evidence such as pictures of arrival board, boarding pass, receipts, etc., to prove the delay.

Check your Eligibility

Enter your flight details into our compensation checker to check if you are eligible for compensation.

Exchange Contacts

Exchange contact information of co-passengers (which can act as evidence while asking for compensation).

Claim Money Back

Assign us your case for a hassle-free claim (we work on a “No Win – No Fee” basis) and Sit Back & Relax.

How Much You Could Receive if You Hire a Claim Company

Through ClaimFlights, you can receive up to 75% of the EC 261 Compensation. Other claim companies offer payouts ranging from 50% to 75%.

The table below provides a direct comparison of receivable payouts from different flight compensation claiming companies.

Receivable Payouts through Different EU Claim Companies

Flight Distance Up to 1500 km 1501 to 3500 km Over 3500 km
ClaimFlights 187.50 € 300 € 450 €
MyFlyRight 150.62 € 241 € 362 €
Flightright 125.75 € 201.20 € 301.80 €
AirHelp 125 € 200 € 300 €
SkyRefund 125 € 200 € 300 €

Source: Price comparison of flight delay claim companies, as of January 2025.

American Airlines Flight Departure Delays

If there’s a delay at departure, you are eligible for the “Right to Care.” The airlines must offer:

For 2+ Hours of Flight Delays

Foods/Snacks

Free meals and refreshments.

Communication

2 free phone calls, email or fax service.

For 5+ Hours of Flight Delays

Foods/Snacks

Free meals and refreshments.

Communication

2 free phone calls, email or fax service.

Flight

Re-routed to the earliest available flight

Refund

Refund of the ticket cost, if you were unwilling to travel

Accommodation

Hotel accommodation & transport facility for an overnight delay.

How to Claim Compensation from American Airlines

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to claim compensation from American Airlines with the help of ClaimFlights.

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
Before filing a claim, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria under EC Regulation 261/2004:

  • Flight Delay: You may be entitled to American Airlines flight delay compensation if your flight departing from an EU airport arrives more than three hours late.
  • Flight Cancellation: Your flight is canceled without at least 14 days’ notice.
  • Denied Boarding: You are denied boarding due to overbooking.

Step 2: Gather Necessary Documentation
To support your claim, gather all relevant documentation:

  • Boarding Pass: Keep a copy of your boarding pass.
    Booking Confirmation: Have your booking confirmation or e-ticket details.
  • Communication from the Airline: Save any emails or messages from American Airlines regarding the delay or cancellation.
  • Receipts for Expenses: If you incurred additional expenses due to the delay or cancellation (e.g., meals, accommodation), keep all receipts.

Step 3: Submit Your Claim with ClaimFlights
Once you have all the necessary documentation, submit your claim through ClaimFlights. Here’s how:

  • Visit ClaimFlights Website: Go to the ClaimFlights website and navigate to the American Airlines compensation page.
  • Enter Your Details: Provide your flight details, delay duration, and other required information.
  • Upload Supporting Documents: Upload your boarding pass, communication from American Airlines, and any other relevant documents.
  • Submit the Claim: Follow the instructions to submit your claim. ClaimFlights will handle the rest, including contacting American Airlines on your behalf.

Additional Tips

  • Act Quickly: Submit your claim after the delayed or cancelled flight as soon as possible.
  • Be Persistent: Follow up regularly until you receive a resolution.
  • Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with U.S. and EU flight delay compensation regulations.

By following these steps and leveraging the expertise of ClaimFlights, you can ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to for a delayed or canceled flight with American Airlines.

Related Questions

Can I cancel my American Airlines flight and get a refund for a canceled flight?
If you want to cancel your reservations or change your flight date, the cancellation policy depends upon the type of ticket you have purchased as of the American Airlines Official Website. You can usually change or cancel your flight reservation online.

Within 24 hours or the same day of booking your ticket, you may cancel your trip and get a full refund of your ticket fee, subject to at least 2 days before the flight’s scheduled departure date. There is no refund for a non-refundable ticket unless and until American Airlines cancels their flight due to certain conditions such as a Change in the schedule, Military Orders, or Death of the Passenger/Co-Passengers.

What happens if you miss an American Airlines flight?
Don’t panic if you miss your American Airlines flight! The airline has a policy, often referred to as the ‘flat tire’ rule, that allows passengers to be placed on standby for a later flight to the same destination without any additional charges.

This rule is applicable if you miss your flight due to circumstances beyond your control. Remember, you need to be at the airport and inform the airline about your situation within two hours of your originally scheduled flight’s departure time.

Can I get compensation if my American Airlines flight is delayed due to bad weather?
You cannot get compensation if your American Airlines flight is delayed due to bad weather. Weather-related delays fall under extraordinary circumstances beyond the airline’s control. However, if the delay is long, the airline must provide necessary assistance, such as meals and accommodation.
Does American Airlines provide refunds for delayed or canceled flights?
It depends. American Airlines may refund significantly delayed or canceled flights if you choose not to travel. And compensation under EU law if your flight was delayed or canceled for reasons within the airline’s control.

ClaimFlights can help you check your eligibility and claim up to €600 in compensation hassle-free. Use our free compensation calculator to find out how much you can claim!

How long does it take to receive flight delay compensation from American Airlines?

The time to receive flight delay compensation from American Airlines varies, typically ranging from a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the claim and the airline’s response time.

To avoid the hassle of dealing with the airline, ClaimFlights can handle the entire process for you. Our experts ensure a smooth and stress-free claim experience, helping you get the compensation you deserve faster

Assign us your claim and let us fight for your rights

Fast, easy, and risk-free compensation claims through "ClaimFlights"

Useful Information about American Airlines

American Airlines (AA) is one of the world’s largest airlines, with its headquarters at Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW). Miami Airport is also the third-largest hub for American Airlines, and it has other 8 hubs located in the US.

American Airlines Flights
Its IATA Code is “AA”. It operates a wide network of domestic as well as international flights.

American Airlines Group is the parent company of American Airlines. It is recognized as one of the founding members of the OneWorld Airline Alliance.

American Airlines Flight Destinations

European Destinations:

American Airlines operates a fleet of 981 aircraft and flies to over 350 destinations worldwide, including over 30 European cities in more than 20 European countries.

You are eligible for flight compensation if your departure took from any of the European destinations below:

Country City
United Kingdom London, Manchester
Norway Oslo
France Paris, Nice
Spain Madrid, Barcelona
Italy Rome, Milan, Naples, Venice
Germany Frankfurt, Munich, Berlin
Greece Athens
Ireland Dublin
Portugal Lisbon
Scotland Edinburgh, Glasgow
Denmark Copenhagen
Switzerland Zurich, Geneva
Czech Republic Prague
Iceland Reykjavik
Sweden Stockholm
American Airlines Reviews
Skytrax has rated American Airlines 2 out of 10 stars from 6215 reviews as of February 2025. SkyTrax rates airlines based on their quality, performance, and services.

Regarding Onboard Services, AA air passengers gave 2 out of 5 stars for in-flight entertainment, food & beverages, seat comfort, staff service, and value for money.

Why choose “ClaimFlights”?

No win = No fee

Yes, you read it right, we do not charge any upfront fees until we win the case and get compensation from the airlines.

Success Fee 25%

Our success fee is just 25% (no VAT, if you are a non-EU resident). We have a fantastic success record and fair prices.

No Legal Action Fee

No legal action fee or admin fee. (It’s free of charge, and no hidden costs, even if we have to take your case to court).

Best Payout

You get the best payout when compared with the other claim companies. Check out the price comparison.

Close to 100% Success

Close to 100% success ratio in court. Our legal claim experts are well trained and experienced in sending claim letters.

Test Winner

We are a test winner in many flight delay provider tests. And, you get the best payout for your delayed flight.
Dr. Mirko C. Ulbrich

Dr. Mirko C. Ulbrich

CEO

Dr. Mirko C. Ulbrich is founder and CEO at Claim Flights GmbH. He has made many Himalaya hiking trips, but has found a passion to grow roses and go hiking in the alpes.

Experiences and Reviews of Our Satisfied Customers

Choose your Choice to Claim Compensation

Here we have compared 3 different ways to claim compensation:

Lawyer

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Higher Fees (£50 to £500, + Hearing Fees)

M

Risk of losing money

M

Hours of your time are spent

M

Result unknown

ClaimFlights

N

Zero Cost Risk & Additional legal databases

N

Pay Only When We Win

N

Takes only 2 minutes to Claim

N

Close to 100% Success rate

Yourself

M

Low cost risk, most airlines ignore customer claims

M

Case might end up in court

M

Takes hours of your time

M

Outcome Unclear

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