Being denied boarding against your will can be frustrating, especially when you’re all set to travel.
Various reasons can lead to such a situation, but knowing why this can happen and understanding your rights to denied boarding compensation can ease the inconvenience. Here are some common reasons for denied boarding and how to ensure you get compensated.
1. Overbooking
Reason: Overbooking is one of the most common reasons for being denied boarding. Airlines often sell more tickets than available seats, anticipating some passengers will not show up. If too many passengers turn up, some will be involuntarily denied boarding.
Compensation: Under EU Regulation 261/2004, if you are denied boarding due to overbooking on a flight departing from an EU airport (or arriving in the EU with an EU carrier), you are eligible for compensation between €250 and €600.
2. Travel Documentation Issues
Reason: Another reason you might be denied boarding is if there’s an issue with your travel documents. This could include a missing visa, a passport that does not meet validity requirements, or mismatched names between your ticket and passport.
Compensation: In cases like this, airlines typically do not offer compensation as the responsibility lies with the passenger to ensure all travel documents are correct and valid.
3. Health and Safety Concerns
Reason: Airlines can deny boarding if they believe a passenger could pose a health or safety risk to others. This could be due to visible symptoms of illness, extreme intoxication, or disruptive behavior.
Compensation: This type of denial usually does not warrant compensation as it is based on safety concerns dictated by aviation law and company policies.
4. Operational Restrictions
Reason: Operational issues such as a change in the aircraft (where the new plane has fewer seats) or weight restrictions can also lead to passengers being denied boarding.
Compensation: If you’re faced with this, you are typically entitled to compensation similar to that for overbooking, as these reasons are considered within the airline’s control.
5. Late Check-In
Reason: Failing to check in on time is a common reason passengers are denied boarding. Most airlines have strict check-in deadlines that, if missed, can result in losing your seat.
Compensation: Generally, passengers who miss the check-in deadline are not entitled to compensation, as it is the passenger’s responsibility to adhere to check-in times.
How to Get Compensated for Denied Boarding
If you find yourself denied boarding and it falls under a scenario eligible for compensation (like overbooking or operational changes), here are the steps to claim your rights:
- Ask for a written statement from the airline explaining why you were denied boarding. Ensure it specifies the reason.
- Familiarize yourself with the details of EU Regulation 261/2004 regarding denied boarding.
- Submit a claim directly to the airline, providing all necessary documentation such as your boarding pass and any communications from the airline.
- Keep records of all receipts and documents related to your travel disruption, as you may be reimbursed.
- Follow up and seek legal advice if necessary.
Conclusion
Being denied boarding can disrupt your travel plans, but understanding your rights and the compensation process can help reduce the effects of such disruptions. By taking the appropriate steps and being prepared, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive any due compensation.