If you don't think you have been treated fairly by an airline you can take action.

Write to the airline as soon as possible after your flight detailing the dates, flight times and flight numbers. Be concise and stick to the facts. Most airlines will attempt to respond within a certain time period, some will also confirm that your letter has been received and is being dealt with.

If you have no joy there, you could contact the Air Transport Users' Council (AUC) passenger watchdog and it may take up your case with the airline. (Though it doesn't have a relationship with Ryanair, whose chief executive Michael O'Leary called the AUC a 'bunch of halfwits'.) If the issue regards baggage or an overbooked flight - both covered by regulations - you will have the best chance of succeeding.

Be realistic. If you paid £20 for your ticket and your flight was delayed by a few hours you are unlikely to get a substantial compensation payout.

If the AUC (020 7240 6061) has no luck with the airline but it thinks you have a good case it may advise you to go to the small claims court.