If your flight is overbooked and you are denied a seat, you may be entitled to compensation, a refund, or an alternative flight. The amount depends on the flight distance and the delay in reaching your final destination.
What happens if my flight is overbooked?
Airlines often sell more tickets than available seats, anticipating no-shows. If you are turned away at the gate or asked to give up your seat, you have rights under UK regulations.
You can volunteer to be bumped, or the airline may tell you that you won't be boarding. According to guidance from the UK Civil Aviation Authority, if you agree to give up your seat, it's up to you to negotiate compensation with the airline. They may offer cash or vouchers, but regardless of whether you volunteer or are forced, the airline must offer you a refund or an alternative flight.
How much compensation can I get if I am forced to give up my seat?
If you are bumped involuntarily and you arrived on time for your flight, you are entitled to compensation. The payout varies based on flight distance and delay:
- Short-haul (under 1,500km, e.g. Glasgow to Amsterdam): £220 if you arrive 2+ hours later, £110 if less than 2 hours later.
- Medium-haul (1,500–3,500km, e.g. East Midlands to Marrakesh): £350 if you arrive 3+ hours later, £175 if less than 3 hours later.
- Long-haul (over 3,500km, e.g. London to New York): £520 if you arrive 4+ hours later, £260 if less than 4 hours later.
Your two choices
Regardless of whether you were bumped voluntarily or involuntarily, the airline must offer one of two options:
Option 1: Alternative flight and assistance – You can choose a replacement flight, departing as soon as possible or at a later date. If you take the earliest flight, the airline must provide care during the wait, including meals, phone calls, accommodation if needed overnight, and transport between airport and hotel.
Option 2: Ticket refund – If you choose not to travel, you get a full refund for unused portions. If bumped on the outbound leg, you get refunds for both outbound and return. If bumped mid-journey, the airline must refund your entire ticket and provide a free return flight to your original departure airport.
