Overbooking is a common practice in the airline industry where more tickets are sold than available seats. If you find yourself in this situation, knowing your rights and the steps to take can help you manage the inconvenience effectively.
Airlines overbook flights to maximize their revenue, anticipating that some passengers will not show up. While this strategy often works, it can sometimes lead to passengers being denied boarding.
Airlines use complex algorithms to predict no-show rates based on historical data. By overbooking, they can ensure that flights are full, thus maximizing their profits.
If you are denied boarding due to overbooking, you are entitled to compensation and assistance under the Air Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR) in Canada.
Knowing what to do immediately after being denied boarding can help you navigate the situation smoothly and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
It’s important to remain calm and polite when speaking with airline staff. This will help you negotiate more effectively and ensure that you receive the assistance you need.
Ask the airline for the compensation you are entitled to under the APPR. This may include monetary compensation, meals, and accommodation if necessary.
If you are denied boarding, the airline should offer alternative travel arrangements. This can include booking you on the next available flight or offering a refund.
Airlines are required to book you on the next available flight to your destination. This may be on their own flight or with another airline.
If the alternative flight does not meet your needs, you can request a full refund of your ticket. This option is available if the delay significantly impacts your travel plans.
Under the APPR, you are entitled to specific compensation based on the length of delay caused by the overbooking.
The compensation amounts vary: $900 CAD for delays of up to 6 hours, $1,800 CAD for delays of 6 to 9 hours, and $2,400 CAD for delays over 9 hours.
Keeping detailed records is crucial for a successful compensation claim. Document all communications with the airline and retain receipts for any expenses incurred due to the overbooking.
Save receipts for meals, accommodations, and transportation. These expenses may be reimbursed by the airline.
Note down the names of airline representatives you speak with and summarize the conversations. This information can be useful if you need to escalate your claim.
Being denied boarding due to overbooking is inconvenient, but knowing your rights and the steps to take can help you manage the situation effectively. Stay calm, request compensation, and document everything to ensure you receive the assistance and compensation you deserve.