Have you ever heard of denied boarding compensation? Yes, that’s right; you could get compensated for denied boarding. This applies in situations where air passengers are not allowed to board their flights despite having a valid booking ticket and the flight is in operation. It happens when the airline is overbooked and there are not enough spaces for all the passengers.
In some cases, the airline tries to convince passengers to join a different flight and if you consent to this, you will not be eligible for compensation. On the other hand, when the airline doesn’t find anyone willing to give up their seats, they would be forced to deny someone boarding. In the latter case, you can take it up with them and get compensated.
What Are My Rights When Denied Boarding?
The EU 261/2004 regulation covers you in this case. It applies if you meet the following criteria:
- You are travelling from an EU airport or landing in one, with an airline headquartered in an EU member state.
- You have been denied boarding without your consent.
- You checked in at least 45 minutes before the time of departure.
- You didn’t do anything that would prompt the airline to deny you boarding. For example, disobeying health regulations.
- This is for a flight operated in the last three years.
As long as you meet these criteria and have a valid booking ticket, you may be entitled to the following:
- Monetary compensation between €250 and €600 based on the flight distance. Short distance – €250; Medium distance – €400; Long distance – €600
- Provision of snacks and drinks by the airline as you wait.
- A ticket refund or a replacement flight.
The amount you get is independent of the original ticket price, and you can also make claims retroactively for up to three years.
How Do I Receive Compensation When Denied Boarding?
If for whatever reason you have been denied boarding, the first thing you want to do is find out why. In most cases, it is caused by overbooking but regardless, get the airline to put it in writing. You will need it to claim your compensation. Note the flight and have your valid ticket and booking information ready.
You can then visit the airline’s website for a compensation form or ask them directly. While you do this, be careful not to receive any vouchers or sign any document that might make you accidentally waive your rights. Read every document carefully, and most importantly, familiarize yourself with the law.
You can also decide for yourself if you want a replacement flight or to be reimbursed for your full ticket price. If there’s no replacement flight, you can book a new flight for yourself in the meantime and keep every relevant document. Then you can charge the airline at a later date.
Bottom Line
Getting reimbursed or compensated for denied boarding can sometimes be a tedious process. However, you shouldn’t let the airline go without compensating you. Preferably, hire an attorney or a company like Flightright to help you fight for your rights and get all your coins.
