You have your plane ticket in hand, you're ready for your vacation or to return home, and you arrive at the boarding gate... only to find out you’re not allowed to board the plane?
It’s a frustrating situation, but you're not out of options. If you're denied boarding, you are entitled—under EU Regulation EC 261/2004—to compensation of up to €600.
There are two types:
1. Voluntary denial of boarding
The airline may ask you to give up your seat voluntarily due to overbooking. In return, they may offer you benefits: vouchers, accommodation, or other perks.
Important: If you accept this option, you are no longer eligible for cash compensation.
2. Involuntary denial of boarding
You have a confirmed reservation, arrived on time, and have all the necessary documents, but the airline won’t let you board—usually due to overbooking.
In this case, you are entitled to compensation between €250 and €600, depending on the flight distance.
You did not voluntarily give up your seat;
You showed up on time at check-in and the boarding gate;
You had all necessary documents (ticket, passport, visa, etc.);
You did not pose a safety or health risk.
€250 for flights up to 1,500 km
€400 for flights between 1,500 – 3,500 km
€600 for flights over 3,500 km
If you accept an alternative flight and arrive with a small delay, compensation may be reduced by 50%.
You also have other rights! Here’s what else you’re entitled to:
Besides financial compensation, you can request:
Ticket reimbursement (full or partial);
An alternative flight to your final destination or return to your departure point;
Free meals and drinks if the wait is over 2 hours;
Hotel accommodation if you have to wait until the next day;
2 free phone calls, emails, or faxes.
Your plane ticket and boarding pass;
Booking confirmation;
Baggage tag;
Receipts for any additional expenses (meals, transport, accommodation);
A denied boarding certificate – make sure to request this at the airport!
The legal deadline to file a claim varies by country, but the sooner you act, the better.
If you voluntarily gave up your seat;
If you did not have valid travel documents (passport, visa);
If you arrived late at the boarding gate;
If you posed a security risk.
If you’ve experienced such a situation, submit a compensation claim!
It’s your right to be compensated, and the process may be easier than you think—especially if you’ve kept all the necessary documents.
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