Flying with British Airways is usually a safe and comfortable experience. But like with any airline, things can go wrong. If you’ve been injured on a BA flight or at the airport while boarding or disembarking, you may be entitled to compensation. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about British Airways personal injury claims, including your legal rights, common causes of injuries, how to claim, and how much compensation you could receive.
Can You Claim Compensation From British Airways?
Yes, you can make a personal injury claim if you were hurt while flying with British Airways. This could include accidents onboard the aircraft, while boarding or leaving the plane, or even at the airport terminal.
You’ll usually be able to claim if:
- Someone else (such as a BA staff member) was at fault
- Your injury happened within the last two years (as per the Montreal Convention)
- You received medical attention and can prove the injury with a doctor’s report
Even if the accident was partly your fault, you might still receive compensation – though the amount may be reduced.
Understanding The Montreal Convention
Most British Airways flights are covered by the Montreal Convention, an international agreement signed by over 120 countries. It sets rules about compensation for injuries, lost baggage, delays, and death during international air travel.
If you’re travelling on a British Airways international flight and are injured due to an unexpected accident, this Convention may apply – and gives you the right to claim damages.
You do not need to prove negligence under the Montreal Convention. You just need to show that an “accident” occurred during the flight or during embarkation/disembarkation that caused your injury.
What Is Considered An “Accident” On A Plane?
An “accident” in this context doesn’t have to mean a crash. It includes any unexpected or unusual event that causes injury. Examples include:
- Hot drinks being spilt on you
- A trolley hitting you in the aisle
- Slipping due to a spillage on the floor
- Luggage falling from an overhead locker
- Getting hurt due to a broken seat
- Injuries during turbulence where warnings weren’t given
As long as the incident was not a result of your own behaviour alone, you may have a valid case.
What Should You Do If You’re Injured On A British Airways Flight?
Get Medical Attention Immediately
Your health comes first. If you’re injured, ask for a first aid kit or medical help onboard. Once you land, see a doctor right away and request a medical report. This will help support your claim.
Report The Incident
Tell a member of the British Airways crew about the accident. Ask them to record the incident in the flight log or make a report.
Gather Evidence
Strong evidence can make a big difference. Try to:
- Take photos or videos of the scene, your injuries, and any damaged items
- Get the names and contact details of any witnesses
- Keep all receipts for expenses, including medical bills or replacement costs
- Write down exactly what happened, including date, time, and details
Speak To A Specialist Solicitor
You’ll benefit from speaking to a solicitor who handles travel or flight injury claims. Many firms (like Leigh Day, Hudgell Solicitors, or Simpson Millar) offer free consultations and work on a No Win, No Fee basis. That means you only pay if your claim is successful.
Common Types Of Injuries On British Airways Flights
Although serious injuries are rare, various types of incidents can still happen onboard or at the airport. Below are some of the most common injuries passengers claim for:
Scalds And Burns From Hot Drinks
These accidents often happen when cabin crew serve tea or coffee during turbulence or fail to secure the drinks properly. You may be entitled to claim if you were burned because of their negligence.
Disabled Passenger Injuries
If you are a disabled passenger and the crew failed to offer proper assistance, leading to injury while moving, boarding, or using the toilet, you may be able to claim. Airlines must follow strict rules under UK and EU regulations when it comes to supporting passengers with additional needs.
Trolley Or Overhead Locker Accidents
Heavy trolleys or bags falling from overhead compartments can cause serious injuries. If the cabin crew failed to lock the lockers or control the trolley properly, British Airways may be held responsible.
Slips, Trips, And Falls
You may trip over cabin equipment, fall due to spilt drinks, or slip at the airport while boarding. If British Airways staff failed to clear a hazard or warn you, you could have a strong claim.
Injuries Caused By Turbulence
Turbulence can’t always be avoided, but if crew members fail to warn passengers, switch on seatbelt signs, or continue to serve drinks during heavy turbulence, the airline may be liable for any resulting injuries.
Food Poisoning And Allergic Reactions
Airlines must ensure that food served onboard is stored, prepared, and labelled properly. You may be able to claim if:
- You got food poisoning from contaminated food
- You suffered an allergic reaction due to incorrect labelling or being served the wrong meal despite informing the crew of your allergy
Injuries Caused By Faulty Seats
A broken or damaged seat could collapse, trap your hand, or cause you to fall. If the damage was known (or should’ve been noticed) by the airline, you can make a claim.
What Can You Claim Compensation For?
Compensation in a flight injury claim usually covers two main areas:
General Damages
This covers the pain, suffering, and impact on your life. Factors like the severity of your injury and the time it takes to recover are considered.
Special Damages
This includes financial losses linked to the accident, such as:
- Medical expenses (treatment, physiotherapy, prescriptions)
- Loss of income
- Travel expenses
- Holiday costs (if your trip was cut short or ruined)
- Cost of care or support
- Future treatment or adjustments at home
Always keep receipts, invoices, and proof of any expenses.
How Much Compensation Could You Get?
There’s no fixed amount. Your payout will depend on your injury and its impact on your life. Below are a few typical compensation ranges as a guide:
| Injury Type | Typical Payout |
|---|---|
| Minor injury (recovery in 1 week) | A few hundred pounds – £600 |
| Minor injury (1–3 months recovery) | £600 – £2,150 |
| Wrist injury (loss of function) | £41,760 – £52,490 |
| Severe knee injury | £61,140 – £84,360 |
| Facial fractures (with deformity) | £13,080 – £21,000 |
| Psychiatric damage (moderate) | £5,130 – £16,720 |
| Fatal injury (with extras) | £12,980 – over £300,000 |
These figures are only rough estimates. A specialist solicitor will be able to give you a more accurate idea based on your individual case.
Is There A Time Limit To Make A Claim?
Yes. You usually have two years from the date of the accident to start your claim under the Montreal Convention. Don’t delay—evidence is easier to collect soon after the accident.
In some cases, you may have more time (for example, if the injury wasn’t immediately obvious), but it’s always safer to act quickly.
Can You Claim If You Accepted A Voucher?
Yes – in most cases, accepting a goodwill voucher or apology letter from British Airways does not stop you from making a personal injury claim. However, you should be careful not to sign any document that waives your right to sue without speaking to a solicitor first.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Suffer In Silence
If you’ve been injured on a British Airways flight, you may feel overwhelmed or unsure whether your case is serious enough to claim. But remember—you have rights as a passenger. The law protects you, especially during international flights.
You don’t have to go through the process alone. A qualified solicitor can help you:
- Understand your chances of success
- Gather evidence
- Deal with British Airways and their legal team
- Maximise your compensation