Denied Boarding And Overbooking
If you were involuntarily denied boarding, don’t miss out on what you're legally owed.
What counts as overbooking?
Overbooking happens when the airline sells more seats than are available on the plane. If everyone shows up, someone gets bumped.
You may be entitled to compensation if:
- You had a valid ticket and checked in on time
- The airline denied you boarding involuntarily (not because of documentation, check-in errors, etc.)
- There were no extraordinary circumstances like safety or health concerns.
Volunteered to give up your seat?
If you accepted compensation voluntarily (e.g., voucher, upgrade), you usually waive the right to extra compensation — unless the airline promised otherwise in writing.
How much compensation can I get?
Under EU Regulation 261/2004, you may be entitled to:
| Flight Distance | Compensation |
|---|---|
| Less than 1,500 km | €250 |
| 1,500 to 3,500 km | €400 |
| Over 3,500 km | €600 |
Airlines must also provide you with:
- A choice between a refund or a new flight
- Meals and refreshments
- Accommodation and transport if needed
Your rights outside the EU
Denied boarding is protected in many countries — not just in Europe:
- United States: U.S. law requires airlines to pay up to $1,550 if you’re bumped from a domestic flight against your will. The amount depends on the ticket price and delay length.
- Canada (APPR): if denied boarding for reasons within the airline’s control, you may receive $900 to $2,400 CAD, depending on how late you arrived at your final destination.
- Brazil: you may be eligible for immediate compensation, rerouting, and reimbursement for additional costs.
- Other countries may offer protection too: file a claim and we’ll assess your rights based on your flight, airline, and local laws.
What to do if you were denied boarding
- Ask for a written statement from the airline confirming the reason.
- Keep your boarding pass and any documents they gave you.
- Note your arrival time at your final destination (if rerouted).
- Don’t throw away vouchers or meal receipts.
- Start your claim online — it only takes a few minutes.
Airlines won’t always tell you what you’re owed
That’s where we come in. We’ll check your eligibility, calculate what you’re owed, and help you claim it — at no upfront cost.
Check your flight in under 2 minutes. We’ll tell you if you have a case — and handle the rest.