Airlines reject valid EU261 claims routinely. Here's why they do it, which rejections are invalid, and exactly how to push back.
Quick answer:
Airlines reject claims because it works. Most passengers accept the first "no." But many rejections are legally invalid, especially when airlines cite "extraordinary circumstances" for:
If your claim was rejected, don't stop. Check if your claim is still valid →
Airlines know what EU261 requires. But if 70% of passengers give up after the first rejection, the airline saves money even if the remaining 30% eventually get paid.
The rejection email is designed to look final. It usually isn't.
"Extraordinary circumstances" — the catch-all. Airlines use it for issues that EU courts have explicitly ruled don't qualify:
Valid extraordinary circumstances: severe weather, ATC strikes, security threats, volcanic ash.
"The delay was under 3 hours" — delay is measured on arrival, not departure (Sturgeon, C-402/07). If the airline is measuring at departure to minimize the figure, push back.
No response at all — not a rejection, just a tactic. Follow up at 14 days, escalate at 30.
Industry patterns suggest a significant portion of initially rejected claims are eventually paid after follow-up or escalation. Airlines count on you quitting. Don't.
Write a follow-up that specifically addresses the airline's stated reason. If they cited extraordinary circumstances, ask them to specify exactly what the circumstance was. Reference the relevant case law. Restate your amount and set a new deadline.
If the airline doesn't budge, escalate for free to the National Enforcement Body.
For the full step-by-step process: How to claim EU261 compensation yourself →
Check if your claim is still valid →
If you've already been rejected once, you know the airline isn't going to make it easy.
You can continue yourself — follow-up letters and NEB escalation are straightforward if you know the case law.
FlightComp's Flight Compensation Kit ($14.99) includes follow-up rebuttal templates and escalation guidance for every scenario, so you have everything you need to push back effectively.
The airline offered a voucher instead of cash. Do I have to accept? No. EU261 entitles you to cash compensation.
Can I escalate to the NEB after a rejection? Yes. NEB complaints are free. They can compel the airline to pay.
How long does NEB escalation take? Typically 2-6 months, depending on country and complexity.
Should I accept a partial offer from the airline? Only if it's close to the full amount. If it's significantly less, push back for what EU261 requires.
Free eligibility check — no signup required. If you qualify, get your Flight Compensation Kit for $14.99 — personalized claim letter, instructions, and escalation templates.
Check my flight →