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What to do if you are denied boarding: Your rights and options if you get ‘bumped’

Photo of Jacob LewisPhoto of Jacob Lewis
By Jacob Lewis

11 October 20243 min read

An aeroplane taking off from an airport on a bright day

"We're sorry, but this flight is overbooked." Those words can turn a holiday into a nightmare faster than you can say "missed connection."

But before you despair, take a deep breath. Being bumped from a flight isn't the end of the world. In fact, it might even land you a nice chunk of change in your pocket.

Here’s what you need to know about your rights if you’re denied boarding, and how much money you could be owed if it does happen.

Why does denied boarding happen?

Airlines sometimes overbook flights, betting that not everyone will show up. Usually, this works out, but occasionally, it leads to more passengers than seats. Other times, they might need to use a smaller aircraft than they originally planned. Either way, the result is the same: some unlucky passengers get bumped.

When do I have rights?

If you're flying to or from the UK, or within the UK, you're protected by law in many cases. This applies to:

  • Flights departing from any UK airport (on any airline)
  • Flights arriving at a UK airport on an EU or UK airline
  • Flights arriving at an EU airport on a UK airline

What’s the difference between voluntary and involuntary bumping?

Sometimes, airlines will ask for volunteers to give up their seats. If you're flexible with your travel plans, this could be an opportunity to snag some compensation. Here's what you need to know:

  • Compensation is negotiable. The airline might offer cash or vouchers.
  • You're still entitled to an alternative flight or a refund.

If you're bumped without agreeing to it (and you checked in on time), you have even stronger rights. You're entitled to compensation based on your flight length and the delay to your final destination. Here's the breakdown.

Flight lengthDelayCompensation
Short-haul (under 1,500km)Less than two hours£110
Short-haul (under 1,500km)Two hours or more£220
Medium-haul (1,500km - 3,500km)Less than three hours£175
Medium-haul (1,500km - 3,500km)Three hours or more£350
Long-haul (over 3,500km)Less than four hours£260
Long-haul (over 3,500km)Four hours or more£520

Remember, this compensation is in addition to your right to either an alternative flight or a full refund. So even if you're only slightly delayed, you could still be in for a nice little windfall!

What are my options?

Whether you volunteer or are involuntarily bumped, you have two main choices: take an alternative flight or get a refund.

First off, the airline must offer you another flight. You can choose to fly as soon as possible or at a later date that suits you. While you wait, the airline should provide:

  1. Food and drink
  2. Communication options (like refunding your phone calls)
  3. Accommodation and transport if you're rebooked for the next day

If you decide not to fly, you can get your money back for the unused parts of your ticket. If it's a return flight and you're bumped from the outbound leg, you can get a full refund.

Can airlines deny boarding for reasons other than overbooking?

Yes, they can deny boarding for health, safety, security reasons, or if you don't have proper travel documentation.

What if I'm travelling for an important event like a wedding or funeral? Can I claim additional compensation?

The standard compensation is fixed. There is a small chance you might be able to claim for additional losses through travel insurance or by contacting the airline directly.

What if the airline refuses to compensate me?

If you believe you're entitled to compensation and the airline refuses, you can complain to the Civil Aviation Authority or seek legal advice.

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