My Aer Lingus flight was delayed without notice, what are my options for compensation?

If your Aer Lingus flight was delayed without notice, you may be entitled to compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004 because Aer Lingus is an EU airline and most of its flights depart from or arrive in the EU.

Under this law, if your flight arrives at the final destination 3 + hours late due to the airline’s fault (technical issues, staffing, etc.), you can claim cash compensation (€250–€600) depending on the distance of your flight.

The typical amounts are €250 for short flights, €400 for medium-haul, and up to €600 for long-haul delays beyond the threshold.

In addition to cash, you have a right to care while delayed — free meals/refreshments, communication, and hotel + transfers if an overnight delay leaves you stranded.

You can also choose a full refund or re-routing instead of waiting for the delayed departure.

If Aer Lingus says your delay was due to “extraordinary circumstances,” ask for a written explanation.

If they refuse compensation without a valid reason and you still qualify, you can escalate by filing a complaint on Xolvie to raise awareness and pursue a resolution.