FlyerTalk Forums - A nice diverted/canceled flight experience (2024)

Currently on the EI flight in 1G. In contrast to the 757, this is a 4 year old A330. The seat is comparable to regular Polaris (not the 757 Fauxlaris). A bit wider, but I miss the odd row number Polaris feature of having the table between you and the aisle. A couple rows do seem to have that, however. Feels like there are fewer little storage cubbies but I think they’re just laid out differently. The layout is a little odd, 1-2-1 or 1-2-2. Catering was better than United’s but not by a lot. Check in and all was very smooth.

As for compensation, United’s UnitedCares website offered either a $650 ETC or 33,500 miles and no cash option. I think I may have relieved them of the 261 liability. I clicked the ETC and then the Continue button, to see if there were additional T&C. But the Continue button was really a “submit” button. I was immediately presented with a page saying an ETC was on its way. The email they sent me saying the ETC had been credited also included the key disclaimer:

So I think I’ve given up my right for cash compensation unless that last sentence is referring to some clause in UK261 that says they have to provide the cash in any case, which I think is what some people implied above. In any case, the £520 is $661 and I will use the ETC so it’s basically a wash.

I've had several UK 261 eligible compensations. They have offered me several hundred dollars via text or email before the trip was complete, which I accepted, but they were not in lieu of the actual UK 261 compensation. I always reached out to UA after the fact and negotiated $1,000 ETCs instead of the $600 cash in addition to what I had already recieved. They're hoping that you accept what you have received and do not pursue what you're legally entitled to. You should still be able to apply for that when you have completed the trip and arrived at your home airport.

Is there any info on how to go about it? The UK CAA website talks around it a lot and then just says you have to apply with your airline, but I don’t see how to submit a claim with United.

https://www.flyertalk.com/forum/unit...ispreloading=1

You just submit a request to Customer Care either via email or through the website. Be sure to mention the flight, date, and that you are claiming UK261 compensation and are willing to accept a $1000 voucher instead of a check.