When does denied boarding qualify for compensation?
You may be eligible if the denial was involuntary (e.g., overbooking), and you presented yourself on time (check-in/boarding gate) with valid travel documents. The regulation generally applies to flights departing from the EU (any airline), or arriving in the EU operated by an EU/EEA/UK/Swiss carrier.
What the airline must offer you on the spot
If you’re denied boarding, the airline must typically offer a choice: refund or re-routing, and may also owe you care/assistance while you wait.
Refund OR re-routing
Depending on your choice and availability: refund of the unused ticket (or the part not flown), or re-routing to your final destination at the earliest opportunity / at a later date you choose.
Care while waiting
Depending on waiting time: meals, refreshments, communications, and sometimes hotel + transport if an overnight stay is needed.
Compensation amounts
For involuntary denied boarding, compensation mainly depends on distance. In some situations, a very quick re-routing can affect the amount — which is why checking the details matters.
Volunteers vs involuntary denial: what’s the difference?
On an overbooked flight, airlines often ask for volunteers willing to give up their seat in exchange for benefits (vouchers, cash, upgrades, etc.). Rights can differ depending on what you accept.
You volunteer
You accept an offer from the airline (an agreement). Always check: value, re-routing, and terms — and ask for it in writing.
Involuntary denial
If you are denied boarding against your will, you can generally claim the standard compensation, plus refund/re-routing and care.
Documents to prepare
To speed things up, gather the following:
How to claim
A clear file with evidence and a timeline significantly increases the chance of success.
- Enter your flight details and describe what happened.
- Eligibility check + case file preparation (evidence, distance, context).
- Contact and negotiation with the airline.
- Payout if accepted (or next steps depending on the case).
FAQ
Overbooking: am I always entitled to compensation?
If the denial is involuntary and you complied with check-in/boarding rules (on time, valid documents), compensation may apply under EC 261/2004 conditions.
What if the airline offers a voucher?
If you accept as a volunteer, it’s usually an agreement. Ask for written terms and verify the real value, re-routing details and conditions.
Is care (meals/hotel) mandatory?
Often yes, depending on waiting time: meals/refreshments, communications, and sometimes hotel + transport if needed. Keep receipts if you pay upfront.