Compensation for refusal to board the plane: what you need to know

Being denied boarding on a flight can be one of the most frustrating experiences when traveling. It may occur due to overbooking, operational reasons, or issues related to your ticket. Whatever the cause, it’s essential to know your rights as a passenger and understand how to claim compensation if this happens to you.

At Airclaim, we want to ensure you're informed and equipped with the knowledge to handle such situations smoothly. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of claiming compensation for refusal to board the plane.

Why you may be denied boarding

Airlines overbook flights to compensate for the expected no-show passengers, and occasionally this results in more passengers showing up than there are available seats. If the airline is unable to accommodate you on your flight, they may ask you to voluntarily give up your seat. If no one volunteers, they may deny you boarding involuntarily. When this happens, you have the right to compensation under European Regulation (EC) No 261/2004, which is designed to protect passengers' rights.

There are other reasons why you may be denied boarding, such as:

• Operational issues: This could include situations like aircraft maintenance problems.

• Documentation issues: If you don’t have the proper documents (e.g., a valid passport or visa), the airline may refuse to board you.

• Overbooking: If too many tickets are sold for a flight and not enough seats are available, this can lead to denied boarding.

Your rights when denied boarding

According to European Union regulations, if you're involuntarily denied boarding, you are entitled to compensation and assistance from the airline. The amount of compensation depends on the distance of your flight and the duration of the delay caused by the denied boarding.

Here’s a quick summary of your rights:

• Compensation: You may be entitled to up to €600, depending on the distance of your flight and the length of the delay.

• Re-routing: The airline must offer you an alternative flight to your destination as soon as possible or at a later date.

• Meals and accommodation: If you're delayed overnight or for an extended period, the airline must provide you with meals and accommodation.

• Communication: The airline must offer you the option to make calls or send messages free of charge while you’re waiting.

These rights apply to flights departing from an EU country or flights to the EU operated by an EU carrier.

At Airclaim, we can help you navigate the process of claiming compensation if you've been denied boarding. Our team is ready to assist you every step of the way, from understanding your eligibility to submitting the necessary documents.

How to claim compensation for denied boarding

If you’ve been denied boarding involuntarily, it’s essential to act quickly. Here’s how you can proceed:

1. Obtain written confirmation: Ask the airline for a written statement confirming that you have been denied boarding and the reason for it.

2. Check your eligibility: Not all situations qualify for compensation. For instance, if you were denied boarding due to your own actions (e.g., arriving late or not having the required documentation), compensation may not be applicable.

3. Submit a claim: Once you have the necessary information, you can submit a compensation claim to the airline. If they refuse or delay your claim, Airclaim’s team can help you escalate the matter and pursue compensation on your behalf.

4. Documentation: Keep all relevant documents, such as your flight ticket, boarding pass, and any correspondence with the airline, as they may be needed to support your claim.

Why you should trust Airclaim to handle your claim

At Airclaim, we specialize in helping passengers claim compensation for flight disruptions, including denial of boarding. Navigating the process of getting compensation can be complicated, especially if the airline is uncooperative. Our experienced team can assist you in ensuring that you get the compensation you're entitled to. With our expert knowledge of passenger rights and a straightforward, no-win-no-fee approach, we take the stress out of the claims process for you.

For more information about your rights as a passenger, visit our dedicated page on passenger rights.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What compensation am I entitled to if I am denied boarding?

If you are involuntarily denied boarding, you are entitled to compensation up to €600 depending on the flight distance and delay. You are also entitled to rerouting, meals, and accommodation depending on the situation.

2. What should I do if I am denied boarding?

If you're denied boarding, ask the airline for written confirmation. Make sure to keep your ticket and any correspondence. You can then file a compensation claim directly with the airline or seek assistance from Airclaim.

3. Does the compensation apply to all types of denied boarding?

No. Compensation applies only to involuntary denials of boarding due to overbooking or operational issues. If you miss your flight due to personal reasons, you are not eligible for compensation.

4. How long does it take to receive compensation for denied boarding?

The timeline for compensation can vary depending on the airline’s response. If the airline denies your claim or delays the process, Airclaim can assist in escalating the matter, often speeding up the process.

Being denied boarding can be an inconvenient and frustrating experience, but knowing your rights and how to claim compensation can help you recover quickly. At Airclaim, we’re here to ensure you receive the compensation you're entitled to, whether it’s for a delayed or canceled flight, lost baggage, or a denied boarding situation. If you’ve been denied boarding, don't hesitate to contact Airclaim to help you get the justice you deserve.

For more travel tips and advice on passenger rights, visit our travel blog for useful articles and updates. Safe travels!