Denied Boarding Flight Compensation
Denied Boarding Flight Compensation – What You Need to Know
Finding out you can't board your flight because it's overbooked is more than just annoying; it can throw your whole trip off. But did you know you might be entitled to compensation if this happens? Our UK flight compensation experts have put together some straightforward tips to understanding your rights and what steps to take if you're denied boarding in the UK or on flights covered by EU regulations.
Why Might You Be Denied Boarding?
Airlines sometimes sell more tickets than there are seats on the plane, expecting that some passengers won't show up. However, if all passengers do arrive and the flight is fully booked, the airline may need to deny boarding to certain passengers, even if they hold valid tickets, have checked in on time, and meet all travel requirements. This situation typically occurs when a flight is overbooked. For a case to qualify as denied boarding, the airline must lack a justifiable reason for denying access. Common scenarios include:
Your Rights to Compensation
If you are denied boarding due to overbooking, you may be entitled to compensation of up to £520 under Regulations UK261 or EU261, depending on factors such as flight distance and delay. This applies to flights departing from the UK or EU, or flights to these regions with a UK or EU airline.
To qualify for compensation, passengers must:
- Arrive at the gate on time
- Have the necessary travel documents
- Present no safety or behavioural risks
Understanding your rights and the airline's obligations is key to securing the compensation you deserve.
Types of Denied Boarding
Voluntary Denied Boarding:
In some cases, airlines offer passengers the option to give up their seats in exchange for perks like vouchers, flight credits, or upgrades. If you choose to volunteer, you forgo the right to compensation under UK261 or EU261. The airline may offer you incentives such as vouchers or air miles, however this is typically lower in value that the compensation you are entitled to.
Involuntary Denied Boarding:
If no one volunteers, the airline may select passengers to deny boarding. In this case, affected passengers are entitled to compensation under UK/EU261 or the Montreal Convention. You'll also receive reimbursement for your ticket or be rebooked on an alternative flight, plus additional benefits such as meals, refreshments, and accommodations if there are significant delays.
How Much Can You Get?
Short flights (under 1,500km): You could get up to £220.
Medium flights (1,500km to 3,500km): The compensation could be up to £350.
Long flights (over 3,500km): The amount might be between £260 and £520, depending on the delay length.
The amount of compensation for involuntary denied boarding depends on the flight distance and the length of your delay.
Distance
Compensation
Flights 1,500 km or less
£220
Flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km
£350
Flights over 3,500 km
£520
Steps to Take if You're Denied Boarding
Don't Volunteer Without Knowing Your Rights:
If the airline asks for volunteers to give up their seats, remember that accepting vouchers or other perks might mean giving up your right to compensation.
Keep Your Travel Documents
Hold onto your boarding pass and any other booking documents. These are crucial for making a claim.
Ask Why You're Denied Boarding
Knowing the reason can be important, especially if you decide to claim compensation later.
Request an Alternative Flight or Refund
You have the right to choose between a refund or being rebooked on the next available flight to your destination.
Ask for Meals and Accommodation if Needed
If you're facing a long wait or an overnight delay, the airline should cover meals and a hotel stay.
Save Receipts for Extra Expenses
Keep any receipts for additional costs incurred due to being denied boarding. You might be able to claim these back.
Check Your Eligibility for Compensation
Not all situations qualify, so it's worth checking here if your specific case does.