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.
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:
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:
Understanding your rights and the airline’s obligations is key to securing the compensation you deserve.
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.
Short flights (under 1,500km): You could get up to €250 (about £220).
Medium flights (1,500km to 3,500km): The compensation could be up to €400 (around £350).
Long flights (over 3,500km): The amount might be between €300 (about £260) and €600 (around £530), 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 |
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.
Hold onto your boarding pass and any other booking documents. These are crucial for making a claim.
Knowing the reason can be important, especially if you decide to claim compensation later.
You have the right to choose between a refund or being rebooked on the next available flight to your destination.
If you’re facing a long wait or an overnight delay, the airline should cover meals and a hotel stay.
Keep any receipts for additional costs incurred due to being denied boarding. You might be able to claim these back.
Not all situations qualify, so it’s worth checking here if your specific case does.
You’re entitled to 2 free calls, emails, or faxes.
Being denied boarding is frustrating, but knowing your rights can make the situation a bit easier to manage. Compensation rules are there to ensure that passengers are treated fairly and can help mitigate the inconvenience and additional costs. If you find yourself in this situation, remember these tips and don’t forget to contact us if you need help to take action to claim what you’re entitled to.