A Johnny Russell strike and an own goal from Andy Robertson gave the visitors hope, but the Tigers saw out the second half to book their place in the final
Steve Bruce will take Hull to Wembley for the third time in four years – despite being battered by Derby.
Bruce’s 200th game in charge was a performance he’ll want to forget – but they clung on for a showdown against Sheffield Wednesday in 10 days’ time.
Hull will contest the richest game in world football, with a £200m cash pot up for grabs, thanks to their 3-0 first leg lead.
A brave performance by super-charged Derby had nervous Hull wobbling until the final whistle.
First half goals from Johnny Russell and an own goal from Andy Robertson gave Darren Wassall’s men hope, but despite peppering Eldin Jakupovic they could’t take it to extra time.
Hull started the game as if they thought it would be a stroll defending their lead and were looking for a quiet night.
An early goal from Russell gave a hint that it might be anything but.
After just eight minutes striker Chris Martin headed across goal and Russell had his first shot blocked, and stabbed home the loose ball from two yards out.
Hull seemed stunned, and perhaps were thinking back to the earlier league game here which Derby won.
No side had ever surrendered a three goal lead in the play off second leg, but there were nerves around the KC.
Russell almost got a second when he curled a free kick just wide, and the collapse was on, as Hull failed to get a grip.
Bruce has hinted a trip to Wembley could be his swansong as a boss, saying before the game he would consider his future this summer win or lose.
Hearing a manager might go probably wasn’t the pep talk his side needed, and they were two down on the night after 36 minutes after a series of Derby attacks.
Marcus Olsson fired in a cross in the corridor of uncertainty behind the defence and Andy Robertson touched it into his own net under pressure from Will Hughes.
Robert Snodgrass tried to spark Hull with a crunching tackle that earned a booking, but Derby were revved up and creating chances, while Abel Hernandez squandered his opportunity.
Derby should have been levelled the tie after the break but Craig Bryson failed to turn in Marcus Olsson’s cross.
Hull upped there resilience levels and held on.
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