Denied boarding (overbooking): immediate compensation rights
If you had a valid ticket, checked in on time and were still refused boarding — typically because the flight was overbooked — EU261 gives you compensation immediately. There is no 3-hour threshold and "extraordinary circumstances" is not a defence for overbooking.
Volunteers vs. involuntary bumping
Airlines must first ask for volunteers, offering negotiated benefits. If you volunteer, you agree to whatever deal you strike — negotiate hard, and get it in writing.
If nobody volunteers and you're bumped involuntarily, the fixed EU261 amounts apply automatically: €250 / €400 / €600 by distance, plus refund or rebooking, plus care.
Common edge cases
Downgraded instead of bumped? You're owed 30–75% of the ticket price back depending on distance.
Denied boarding because of alleged late check-in or documentation issues you dispute? Save evidence (photos of the queue, timestamps, boarding pass) — these cases often succeed with proof.
Check if your flight qualifies
A claim service checks your flight data, files the claim and chases the airline — including going to court if needed.
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Want a number first? Calculate your compensation.