Comparison Of Airhelp With Other Flight Claim Companies

Comparison of Airhelp with Other Flight Compensation Claiming Companies

AirHelp simplifies flight compensation claims, making the process easier for travelers. In this guide, we’ll explore its pros and cons and determine whether the service is worth it, or should you explore alternatives?

Is AirHelp Legit?

AirHelp is a renowned flight compensation company that has assisted millions of passengers worldwide since its founding in 2013; known for helping travelers claim compensation for flight delays and flight cancellations.

How Airhelp Works?

AirHelp simplifies the claims process with a “No Win, No Fee” model, ensuring passengers only pay if their claim is successful. Travelers begin by submitting their flight details on their website, where eligibility is assessed based on flight data and laws such as EU Regulation EC261.

If eligible, they can handle the entire process, including negotiations and, if necessary, legal proceedings against airlines. After a successful claim, they deduct a fee before transferring the compensation to the passenger.

How AirHelp Compensation Helps You Secure Your Flight Refund

They efficiently handle claims for flight issues like delays, cancellations, or denied boarding, making the process seamless. Here’s how it helps:

  • Claim Submission: Passengers submit their flight details via AirHelp’s website.
  • Eligibility Check: Their team evaluates if the claim qualifies under passenger rights laws.
  • Claim Processing & Negotiation: They handle communication with the airline and negotiate on your behalf.
  • Legal Action (if necessary): If the airline rejects the claim, AirHelp can take legal action to secure compensation.
  • Compensation Payout: Once successful, AirHelp deducts its fee (up to 35% or 50% with legal action) and transfers the remaining amount to you.

AirHelp has a Trustpilot rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 203,454 reviews as of December 2024, reflecting its strong customer satisfaction.

They offer a convenient, no-win-no-fee service, though passengers may want to explore Airhelp Alternative for better value.

What Is AirHelp Fee Structure?

AirHelp operates on a success-based commission model, meaning passengers only pay if their claim is successful. This company typically charges a commission of 35% including VAT, and additionally 15% for legal cases, which means up to 50% fees to the compensation amount, depending on the complexity of the case and the country in which the claim is filed.

This model ensures that their services are performance-driven, with passengers only paying for results. They don’t charge upfront fees, giving passengers confidence that they will only pay when their claim is successful.

Here’s the summary of how much flight delay compensation you could receive through AirHelp considering legal action to be mandatory.

Flight Distance Hours of Delay Entitlement under EU Law AirHelp Commission
(35% service fee + 15% legal fee)
Payout through AirHelp
Short-Haul Flights (1,500 km or less) 0 to 3 hours
3 to 4 hours €250 €125 €125
4 hours or more €250 €125 €125
Long-Distance EU Flights (Over 1,500 km) 0 to 3 hours
3 to 4 hours €400 €200 €200
4 hours or more €400 €200 €200
Medium-Range Flights crossing EU borders (1,500 km to 3,500 km) 0 to 3 hours
3 to 4 hours €400 €200 €200
4 hours or more €400 €200 €200
Long-Haul Flights crossing EU borders (Over 3,500 km) 0 to 3 hours
3 to 4 hours €300 €150 €150
4 hours or more €600 €300 €300

AirHelp Alternatives: Find the Best Flight Claim Service

When choosing the best flight compensation claim companies, comparing AirHelp with other flight claim companies is essential. Here’s a quick breakdown of how AirHelp stacks up against its competitors:

Comparison Of Airhelp With Other Claim Companies

Here all information is fetched from reliable sources as of 20th December 2024.

Claim Companies AirHelp ClaimFlights Flightright
Google Rating

4.6/ 5

2,388 Google reviews

4.8/ 5

194 Google reviews

4.3/ 5

4,228 Google reviews

Fees up to 50% (35% including VAT, plus 15% for legal action) 25% including VAT (no extra cost for legal action) 20–30% commission plus 19% VAT; additional 14% surcharge if legal action is required
Global Presence Strong global presence Primarily focused on EU 261 claims Primarily focused on EU cases
Legal Action Costs An additional 15% on top of the success fee No additional costs Additional surcharge if legal action is required
Customer Support Responsive customer service 24/7 availability Offers customer support
Unique Features AirHelp Plus subscription for exclusive benefits Transparent pricing, the maximum payout, 24/7 customer service Established reputation with a high success rate for denied claims
Best For Passengers needing global support or handling complex claim Passengers seeking transparent pricing and fast payouts Passengers with EU-based claims

Key Considerations Before Choosing AirHelp

Before selecting AirHelp as your flight compensation partner, consider the following factors to make an informed decision:

  1. Fee:
    • They charge a success fee of 35% (including VAT) for standard claims.
    • In cases requiring legal action, the fee can go up to 50%.
    • Compare these fees with other providers to ensure you receive maximum compensation.
  2. Speed:
    • The claim processing time can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the airline’s response.
    • While they strive to handle claims promptly, legal actions can significantly delay payouts.
  3. Ease of Process:
    • They offer a user-friendly platform, their website, making it easy to submit claims and track progress.
    • Their comprehensive FAQs and Knowledge Base provide quick answers to common queries.
  4. Success Rate:
    • They have a strong track record with a high success rate for eligible claims, thanks to their legal expertise and extensive airline network.
    • Customer reviews and ratings, such as their 4.6 stars on Trustpilot, highlight their reliability.

By evaluating these factors, you can decide whether AirHelp aligns with your needs and expectations for handling flight compensation claims.

Is Airhelp Worth It?

AirHelp is undoubtedly a globally recognized flight compensation company, offering a seamless claims process and a strong track record of success. Their user-friendly platforms, extensive airline network, and commitment to handling legal complexities make them a solid option for passengers seeking assistance with flight disruptions.

However, their higher fees, up to 50% when legal action is required, can significantly reduce the compensation you receive. Additionally, payout speeds may not be as fast compared to some competitors.

For passengers seeking better value and faster payouts, alternatives like ClaimFlights may be worth exploring. ClaimFlights offers lower fees, transparent processes, and competitive success rates, ensuring you maximize the compensation you’re entitled to.

Before making a decision, compare your options to find the best flight delay claim company that meets your needs for efficiency, affordability, and reliability.

Pros and Cons

AirHelp is a popular flight compensation service but is often criticized for high service fees. Read the AirHelp Reviews to explore its pros and cons.

Pros of Using Airhelp

  • Smooth Claim Handling: They take care of the entire process once you submit the required documents.
  • No Win, No Fee Policy: You only pay if your claim is successful, with no charges for unsuccessful cases.
  • Handles Legal Complexities: They manage all legal challenges, including court proceedings if required.

Cons of Using Airhelp

  • High Fees: Commission fees range from 35% including VAT, increasing to up to 50% if legal action is required.
  • Subscription Costs: AirHelp Plus costs €24.99 or €49.99 annually, which may not be worth it for infrequent travelers. Its terms can also be unclear.
  • Slower Payouts: Claim processing times can be longer compared to competitors.
  • Limited Claim Updates: The platform provides minimal real-time updates on the progress of your claim.

What is AirHelp Plus?

AirHelp Plus offers two membership plans particular to travelers seeking hassle-free flight compensation and additional travel benefits.

The Smart Plan

Priced at €39.99 per year (billed annually), is ideal for occasional travelers, covering up to 3 trips per year. Members receive €100 for flight disruptions, €100 for lost or delayed baggage, and complimentary lounge access during disruptions. Additionally, the plan includes year-round benefits such as up to €600 in flight compensation with no fees, 24/7 dedicated support, flight status updates, and exclusive travel perks.

The Pro Plan

Designed for frequent travelers, covers up to 9 trips annually. Currently available at €99.99, this plan offers the same perks as the Smart Plan but for a higher number of trips. Members enjoy compensation for disruptions, lounge access, and all-year-round benefits, ensuring peace of mind throughout their journeys.

AirHelp Plus simplifies travel disruptions, providing value-added services that cater to different traveler needs.

Whether you should pay for AirHelp+ depends on your travel habits and need for flight compensation services. Here are some key points to help you decide:

Who Benefits Most from AirHelp+?

  • Frequent Travelers: If you fly multiple times a year, AirHelp+ can save you money on service fees and provide peace of mind.
  • Travelers Concerned About Disruptions: With benefits like compensation for flight disruptions, lost baggage coverage, and lounge access during delays, it’s a good choice for those prioritizing comfort and reliability.
  • Those Seeking Convenience: AirHelp+ handles claims for compensation with no additional service or legal action fees.

AirHelp+ Cost

  • Smart Plan (€39.99/year): Covers 3 trips, making it ideal for occasional travelers.
  • Pro Plan (€84.99/year): Covers 9 trips, suitable for frequent flyers.

Is AirHelp+ Worth It?

While AirHelp+ offers several benefits, it may not be the best value for all travelers. If you fly only a few times a year, the subscription cost may outweigh the benefits.

  • Self-Claiming is Free: You can file claims yourself under EU laws without paying a subscription or service fee.
  • Limited Coverage: AirHelp+ covers only a set number of trips (3 or 9), making it less useful for frequent travelers.
  • High Subscription Cost: The annual fee may be expensive compared to the compensation you could receive.
  • No Guarantee of Success: There’s no guarantee your claims will be accepted, and you may not get compensation.
  • Non-Disruptive Airlines: If you mostly fly with punctual airlines, you’re unlikely to benefit from the service.
  • Other Alternatives:Competitors are offering similar services without a subscription fee.

For occasional travelers or those who don’t face many disruptions, AirHelp+ may not provide enough value to justify the cost.

Was your flight delayed? You may be eligible for compensation

Has your flight been delayed for more than 3 hours or even canceled? Don't worry, you may be eligible for compensation up to 600€ under the EU Regulation 261/2004.
Check if You're Eligible

We offer "No Win - No Fee" Services, so claiming is Risk-Free!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What percentage does AirHelp take?

AirHelp charges up to 35% of the compensation amount (including VAT) if the claim is successful. If legal proceedings are required, the fee can increase to 50%. Passengers face no upfront costs but should compare options due to the relatively high fees.

2. What is the success rate of AirHelp?

AirHelp doesn’t disclose its exact success rate but is recognized for expertise and an effective claims process. Outcomes vary based on the case and airline response. Reviews can provide better insights into their performance.

3. Is it safe to use AirHelp?

Yes, AirHelp is a company with a “No Win, No Fee” policy. Operating since 2013, they comply with global data protection regulations, making their platform secure for users.

4. Should I use AirHelp?

AirHelp simplifies the claims process, handling everything from negotiations to legal action. However, their fees are high, especially for legal cases. Alternatives like ClaimFlights offer lower fees and faster payouts, so weigh convenience against cost.

5. What does AirHelp Plus do?

AirHelp Plus is a subscription service offering priority claim processing, airport lounge access during delays, and extended family coverage. It’s ideal for frequent travelers but may not be cost-effective for occasional flyers.

6. What are the best alternatives to AirHelp for flight delay compensation?

Some of the best alternatives to AirHelp include:

  • ClaimFlights: Offers lower fees and efficient claims processing, ensuring passengers get maximum compensation quickly.
  • FlightRight: Boasts high success rates and transparent pricing, with expertise in handling complex cases under regulations like EC261.
  • MyFlyRight: Known for competitive fees and prompt payouts, providing a hassle-free experience for travelers seeking compensation.

These alternatives may offer better value depending on your priorities, such as lower fees, faster payouts, or overall customer experience. Comparing them can help you find the best service for your flight compensation needs.

Experiences and Reviews of Our Satisfied Customers

Petya Petrova

Petya Petrova

International Legal Strategist

Petya Petrova-Racheva holds a Master of Law (LLM) degree, and has broad knowledge of European Laws in different countries. She loves travelling and her dog, as well as her family.

Choose your Choice to Claim Compensation

Here we have compared 3 different ways to claim compensation:

Lawyer

M

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

We help in many languages - ClaimFlights International Websites