Overbooked and denied boarding — what you can ask for

Updated 2026-10-01

Under EU261 you can choose a refund within 7 days or re-routing at the earliest opportunity, and the airline must provide meals, calls and a hotel if you are stuck overnight. You may also be owed up to €250 per passenger unless the cause was extraordinary.

What happenedYour optionsCareCompensation
Denied boarding (overbooked)
  • Full refund of the unused ticket within 7 days (plus a return flight to your origin if the trip no longer makes sense).
  • Re-routing to your final destination at the earliest opportunity, under comparable conditions – including on another airline or to a nearby airport if that gets you there sooner.
  • Re-routing at a later date of your choice, subject to seat availability.
  • Meals and refreshments in reasonable relation to the waiting time (ask for vouchers).
  • Two free phone calls, emails or messages.
  • Hotel accommodation if you need to stay overnight, plus transport between the airport and the hotel.
€0–€250 per passenger

Say this at the desk

"I did not volunteer to give up my seat. Under EU Regulation 261/2004, I am entitled to compensation, a choice of refund or re-routing, and care."

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Sources: Regulation (EC) No 261/2004 · European Commission – Air passenger rights

Advice only, not legal advice. We never change your booking and never take a share of your compensation. Last verified 2026-10-01.