Difference Between TUI Cancellations and Delays

Whether you’re heading to a beach resort or returning home after a holiday, disruptions to your flight can turn your travel plans upside down. If you’re flying with TUI, it’s important to understand the difference between a flight delay and a cancellation, as your rights—and the compensation you may be entitled to—vary in each situation.

In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between TUI cancellations and delays, and explain how TUI flight delay compensation works under current UK and EU regulations.

What’s the Difference Between a Flight Delay and a Cancellation?

Flight Delay

A flight is delayed when the scheduled departure or arrival is pushed back but the flight still eventually takes off and lands. Delays can range from minutes to several hours and are often due to reasons like:

• Technical issues

• Weather conditions

• Air traffic congestion

• Crew availability

If your TUI flight arrives at your final destination 3 hours or more later than scheduled, and the delay was within TUI’s control, you may be entitled to TUI flight delay compensation.

Flight Cancellation

A flight is cancelled when it doesn’t operate at all, and passengers are usually rebooked on a different flight or offered a refund. Cancellations may happen due to:

• Aircraft faults

• Operational issues

• Low passenger numbers (in rare cases)

• Extreme weather

If your TUI flight is cancelled, you have the right to choose between:

• A full refund

• An alternative flight (rerouting)

• Additional compensation (if notified less than 14 days in advance and the airline is at fault)

TUI Flight Delay Compensation: What You Can Claim

If your flight is delayed by 3 hours or more, and the cause is not considered an “extraordinary circumstance” (such as severe weather or security risks), you could be entitled to:

Flight DistanceDelay DurationCompensation AmountUp to 1,500 km3+ hours€250 / ~£2201,500 – 3,500 km3+ hours€400 / ~£350Over 3,500 km3–4 hours€300 / ~£260Over 3,500 km4+ hours€600 / ~£520

TUI Flight Cancellation Compensation: When Are You Eligible?

You may be entitled to compensation for a cancelled TUI flight if:

• You were informed of the cancellation less than 14 days before departure

• You were not rebooked on a flight that arrives at a similar time

• The cancellation was within TUI’s control

In addition to a refund or rebooking, compensation amounts are usually the same as those for delays, depending on flight distance and timing.

What About Package Holidays?

If your cancelled or delayed flight was part of a TUI holiday package, you’re also protected under the Package Travel Regulations, which means TUI must help ensure the rest of your holiday continues smoothly.

If a delay or cancellation causes you to miss part of your holiday—like a hotel stay or activity—you may be entitled to further compensation beyond just the flight disruption.

How to Claim TUI Flight Delay or Cancellation Compensation

1. Visit the TUI Website: Use their dedicated compensation form on this page.

2. Provide Flight Details: Include your booking reference, flight number, and date of travel.

3. Explain the Disruption: Clearly describe what happened, and attach any documents like boarding passes or confirmation emails.

4. Wait for a Response: TUI typically replies within 28 days.

If your claim is rejected unfairly, you can escalate it to an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) body or seek legal advice.

Final Thoughts

Knowing the difference between a TUI flight delay and a TUI flight cancellation can help you better understand your passenger rights. Whether your flight took off hours late or was called off completely, it’s worth checking if you qualify for TUI flight delay compensation or cancellation reimbursement.

By staying informed and acting quickly, you can make sure travel disruptions don’t cost you more than just time.