What should I do if my flight is overbooked and I cannot board?
June 26, 2023 | 45,00 EUR | answered by Sophia Breitwieser
Dear Travel Law Attorney,
I am reaching out to you with an urgent question regarding an issue I recently encountered during my flight. My name is Jessica Gerdes and I had booked a flight for a holiday trip. However, upon arrival at the airport, I was informed that the flight was overbooked and I would not be able to board.
Naturally, I was very concerned and frustrated about this situation as I could not change my travel plans and had already paid for the ticket in advance. I tried to speak with the airline, but they could not offer me a concrete solution.
I am now wondering how to proceed in such a situation. What rights do I have as a passenger when my flight is overbooked? Are there any legal steps I can take to receive compensation or find an alternative solution? How should I best proceed to get my money back or find another way to reach my destination?
I am grateful for your support and advice in this matter as I am in a difficult situation and do not know how to proceed. I hope you can help me find a solution to my problem.
Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Sincerely,
Jessica Gerdes
Dear Mrs. Gerdes,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding your problem with an overbooked flight. I am sorry to hear that you have found yourself in such a situation and that your travel plans have been affected as a result. I understand your frustration and would like to help you find a solution to your problem.
As a passenger whose flight has been overbooked, you have certain rights that can help you receive appropriate compensation or an alternative solution in such a situation. According to the EU Passenger Rights Regulation, passengers whose flight is overbooked are entitled to compensation or an alternative transportation option.
If your flight is overbooked and you are unable to board, the airline should offer you an alternative transportation option, such as a replacement flight or a refund of the ticket price. Additionally, you are usually entitled to compensation, depending on the flight distance and duration of the delay.
In your case, since the airline has not offered you a specific solution, I recommend that you contact the airline directly and clearly communicate your concerns. Request compensation in accordance with the EU Passenger Rights Regulation and demand an alternative transportation option to reach your destination.
If the airline still does not offer a satisfactory solution, you may also consider taking legal action. You could consult a travel law attorney to represent your rights and demand appropriate compensation. An attorney can help you recover your money and find a solution to your problem.
I recommend gathering all relevant information and documents to document your case and seek legal advice. Do not hesitate to assert your rights as a passenger and advocate for appropriate compensation.
I hope that my advice will be helpful to you and that you can find a solution to your problem. If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, I am happy to help.
Sincerely,
Sophia Breitwieser
Travel Law Attorney
