Claim Compensation from Ryanair

Most people waste time calling, but paper trails are king here. Based on recent user success rates, these are the most effective channels.

Do not start the claim process until you have these files ready. Ryanair's system times out quickly, and if you miss a detail, they reject it automatically.

1. The Boarding Pass: You need the PDF or a screenshot of the mobile pass. This proves you were actually checked in.
2. Proof of Delay: A screenshot of the departure board, the SMS they sent you, or a FlightRadar24 log showing the delay time.
3. Receipts for Expenses: If you are claiming for food or hotels (Right to Care), you need itemized receipts. Credit card slips are not enough.
4. Bank Details: Have your IBAN and BIC/SWIFT code ready. Since you are likely using a US bank, double-check these with your bank to avoid payment bounces.
5. The Regulation Reference: Know that you are claiming under Regulation (EC) No 261/2004. Mentioning this specifically signals you know your rights.

Since Ryanair is an EU carrier, US passengers are protected by European laws, not just US DOT rules. This is a huge advantage.

Airlines (EU Regulation 261/2004): If your flight is cancelled or delayed by more than 3 hours upon arrival, you are entitled to cash compensation unless the cause was 'extraordinary' (like weather or air traffic control strikes).

• Short haul (under 1,500km): Approx $270 (€250)
• Medium haul (1,500km - 3,500km): Approx $430 (€400)
• Long haul (over 3,500km): Approx $650 (€600)

Right to Care: Regardless of the reason for the delay, if you are stuck for hours, they must provide meals and refreshments. If it is overnight, they must pay for a hotel and transport to it. Keep your receipts. Do not accept a voucher if you want cash; the law requires a monetary refund if requested.

Use this template if the web form fails or if you need to escalate via post. Fill in the bracketed information.

Subject: Formal Compensation Claim - Flight [Flight Number] - [Date] - [Booking Reference]

To the Legal/Claims Department,

I am writing to formally claim compensation under Regulation (EC) No 261/2004 for the cancellation/long delay of my flight [Flight Number] on [Date].

The flight was scheduled to depart from [Departure Airport] at [Time] and arrive at [Arrival Airport] at [Time]. However, the flight arrived [Number] hours late / was cancelled.

According to the regulation, I am entitled to €[Amount] (approx $[Amount] USD) in compensation. Additionally, I incurred expenses for meals and accommodation totaling $[Amount] due to your failure to provide care, which I have attached receipts for.

Please remit the total amount to the following bank account:

Bank Name: [Bank Name] Account Number: [Account Number] SWIFT/BIC: [Code]

I expect a response within 14 days before I escalate this matter to the Irish Aviation Authority.

Sincerely,

[Your Name] [Phone Number]

Ryanair is famous for initially denying valid claims. If they say no, do not stop there.

• AviationADR: Ryanair is signed up for Alternative Dispute Resolution. If they reject your claim, you can file a case with AviationADR for free. They are an independent body.
• Irish Aviation Authority (IAA): Since Ryanair is registered in Ireland, you can file a complaint with the IAA if the airline ignores the law.
• Credit Card Chargeback: If you paid for a flight that was cancelled and they refused to refund the ticket cost (separate from compensation), file a dispute with your US credit card issuer for 'services not received.'
• Small Claims Court: This is tricky for US residents against an Irish company, but often a 'Letter Before Action' sent to their legal department is enough to wake them up.

Let's be real, dealing with Ryanair's support is about as fun as a root canal. You have probably spent hours listening to their hold music or arguing with a chat bot that runs in circles. It is exhausting. Pine AI changes that dynamic completely. We are not just a cancellation tool; we are your personal administrative muscle.

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Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for your specific situation.