Travel Insurance for Flight Delays: Protect Your Trip Today

A delayed flight isn’t just a remote possibility — it’s a real risk: about one in four planes either doesn’t take off or arrive on time. Flights covered by European Regulation EC 261 provide compensation for passengers, but U.S. travelers need something more. Trip delay insurance is designed to cover the inconveniences you face during your flight, regardless of the destination or the cause.

• EC 261 offers compensation for delays caused by airlines in Europe, but what about in the U.S. or for reasons beyond the airline’s control? That’s where trip delay insurance comes in.

• DOT protections provide some compensation, but they don’t always cover everything you might need when stuck waiting for hours.

Not all flight delay insurance policies are the same. However, they generally cover any unexpected expenses you may incur due to a flight delay: not only when the airline is responsible, but also for reasons beyond their control — severe weather conditions, strikes by ground staff, etc. In these cases, insurance may provide assistance in the form of reimbursement for:

• Hotel stays or alternative accommodation.

• Meals and drinks during the delay.

• Transportation to and from the airport.

• Other unexpected expenses related to the delay.

Here’s how trip delay insurance differs from EC 261 and DOT protections:

• The European EU 261 regulation provides compensation for passengers only when the delay is the airline's fault. It covers flights departing from the European Union, as well as those headed to the EU operated by a European airline.

• DOT regulations in the U.S. offer some rights, which may vary depending on the airline. Rebooking or refund options, meals, accommodation, and other types of assistance may be provided, but only if the delay is the airline’s responsibility.

Flight delay insurance, therefore, offers protections that go beyond what is already provided by passenger protection regulations.

What’s Covered by Travel Delay Insurance?

The exact coverage depends on the insurance policy you choose. The table below summarizes what you can expect:

What’s typically NOT covered:

• Delays due to personal reasons (e.g., missing your flight).

• Short delays under 3 hours.

AirHelp+ takes a different approach compared to other trip delay insurance. While others focus on reimbursing your expenses, AirHelp+ provides immediate support for your trip: a fast payout that you’ll receive in just a few hours straight to your account.

Additionally, we help you get any compensation you’re entitled to as a passenger. Here’s what you’ll get:

• Fast payout: Get €100 within hours of your flight disruption — we automatically notify you when you’re eligible.

• Global Coverage: Whether flying domestically in the U.S. or internationally, your delays are covered.

• Multi-Trip Protection: Covers multiple flights and trips throughout the year.

• Comfort and ease: Lounge access during a disruption.

• EC 261 compensation: No fees on up to $650 compensation.

• Dedicated 24/7 support: You have access to the best legal and travel support with our team of experts.

With AirHelp+, you’re not just filing claims — you’re staying ahead of the chaos with real financial protection.

According to official statistics from the DOT (United States Department of Transportation), less than 80% of flights have been on time in recent years. Delayed flights cost you time and often money; if you're on vacation, they can rewrite your entire travel narrative.

So, why do you need Trip Delay Insurance?

• Reimbursement for unexpected expenses.

• A safety net for all types of delays — due to weather, maintenance, strikes, etc.

• Your trip is covered, it doesn’t matter if you’re flying within the U.S. or internationally.

• Keep Traveling: Solutions like AirPayout give you financial support within hours.

Statistics:

• Over 20% of flights have been delayed in recent years (source: DOT).

• Severe weather accounts for nearly 74% of flight delays (source: FAA).

Main Causes of Flight Delays and How Insurance Can Protect You

Knowing the main causes of flight delays can help you decide whether or not to opt for insurance. Some delays are attributable to airlines, others to external factors. Here's a list:

• Weather Conditions. Especially at certain times of the year, your flight may be delayed due to bad weather.

• Air Traffic Congestion. During the busiest times of the year, or peak hours, delays can occur.

• Technical Issues. Aircraft maintenance can extend longer than expected due to unforeseen problems.

• Airline Operational Issues. This can include unexpected events in crew scheduling, logistics, flight planning, etc.

• Security Concerns. These can occur on the aircraft or at the airport.

• Strikes by air or ground staff can cause delays or cancellations of flights.

These and other types of delays are difficult if not impossible to predict. Travel insurance for delayed flights can offer protection in these situations, ensuring your passenger rights.

You can’t stop the weather, but you can stop worrying about it. AirHelp+ gives you the tools to face any delay with confidence. When you combine the best of both worlds — compensation under EC 261 and DOT regulations and the comprehensive protection of Trip Delay Insurance — you’re prepared for anything.

• Sign up now to enjoy year-round protection.

• Already on the road? It’s never too late to add coverage for your current trip.

Your journey is yours to make. We're just here to make it smoother.

What is travel insurance for flight delays?

This type of insurance becomes active when your flight is delayed beyond a specific time threshold. Depending on the circumstances, it can cover expenses incurred due to the delay, such as meals, drinks, transport, accommodation, and essential items. AirHelp Plus also assists in securing the monetary compensation you're entitled to from the airline.

When can I claim compensation for a flight delay?

This aspect can vary depending on the jurisdiction. For flights covered by the EU regulation EC261, if your flight is delayed by at least 3 hours, you may be entitled to compensation.

What are considered valid reasons for flight delays under travel insurance?

This depends on the specific policy of each insurance provider. Typically, mechanical issues with the aircraft, airline staff strikes, and certain weather conditions are covered, although, as mentioned before, this varies by policy.

What does AirHelp Plus cover?

In the case of delayed flights or other disruptions, AirHelp Plus provides a quick payout of €100. Additionally, it makes it simple and immediate to request compensation from the airline for the flight delay. It also offers a quick payout of €100 for issues with checked baggage and helps you claim up to $1700 for luggage problems and up to $7000 for extra expenses.

How much does insurance for flight delays cost?

Costs can vary depending on the insurance company. Check here for the pricing details of AirHelp Plus.