It depends. Here’s how compensation actually works across routes and jurisdictions.
U.S. vs. Europe: the key difference
Domestic U.S. flights: No federal law requires cash compensation for delays. American may offer vouchers, meals or hotels as a courtesy for controllable delays. Refunds are required for cancellations if you opt not to travel.
EU / UK routes (EC 261): If your flight is covered by EC 261 and the delay is 3+ hours at arrival (and not caused by extraordinary circumstances), you may be owed €250–€600.
What American Airlines typically offers
Meal or drink vouchers for multi-hour, controllable delays.
Hotel accommodation if the airline caused an overnight delay.
Refunds for cancellations.
How much can you get (examples)
EU short-haul: €250.
EU medium-haul: €400.
EU long-haul: €600.
How to proceed
For domestic delays: ask gate staff for vouchers and keep receipts for possible goodwill claims.
For EU/covered international delays: you can file directly, or let specialists handle it.
Use AirHelp when it matters
Filing EC 261 claims can be time-consuming. AirHelp checks eligibility and files for you (no-win, no-fee):.
