Flight Overbooking in Bologna: Your Rights & How to Get Compensation

Bologna, a city renowned for its rich history, exquisite cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere, is home to Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ). As a major hub in northern Italy, it handles millions of passengers annually. But with high demand comes a common issue—flight overbooking. Airlines sometimes sell more tickets than available seats, hoping some passengers won’t show up. If you’ve been denied boarding due to overbooking, you might be eligible for compensation.

Why Do Airlines Overbook Flights?

Airlines overbook flights to maximize occupancy. They analyze past data and predict how many passengers won’t show up. However, when too many passengers arrive, someone gets left behind. If this happens to you in Bologna, don’t worry—EU regulations protect your rights.

What Are Your Rights If Your Flight from Bologna is Overbooked?

Under EU Regulation 261/2004, if you are denied boarding against your will due to overbooking, you may be entitled to:

• Compensation between €250 and €600, depending on flight distance.

• A choice between re-routing on another flight or a full refund.

• Food, drinks, and hotel accommodation (if necessary).

The airline must offer an alternative flight, but if it doesn’t suit your schedule, you can demand a refund instead.

What to Do If Your Flight is Overbooked at Bologna Airport

If you find yourself stranded due to an overbooked flight at Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, follow these steps:

1. Do not volunteer to give up your seat unless the airline offers significant compensation.

2. Request written confirmation from the airline that you were denied boarding due to overbooking.

3. Ask for immediate assistance – food, drinks, and hotel (if needed).

4. Book another flight – If urgent, check if there are flights from nearby airports like Florence (FLR) or Venice (VCE). Bologna Centrale station offers fast train connections to both.

5. Claim your compensation – File a claim under EC 261/2004 and get what you're owed.

Alternative Travel Options from Bologna

If you’re stuck at Bologna Airport due to overbooking and need to get to your destination quickly, consider these options:

• Florence Airport (FLR): Just 35 minutes away by high-speed train.

• Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE): A 1.5-hour train ride, with multiple flight options.

• Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP): Longer but offers extensive international connections.

Check for alternative flights from these airports and book accordingly.

Can You Get Compensation If You Accept a New Flight?

Yes! Even if the airline offers a new flight, you can still claim compensation unless the delay is minimal:

• Less than 2 hours delay (short-haul flights) – No compensation.

• 3+ hours delay – Full compensation applies.

• The airline must provide food and hotel if you’re rebooked on a much later flight.

How to Claim Compensation for an Overbooked Flight

If your flight was overbooked at Bologna Airport, here’s how you can claim compensation:

1. Gather proof – Boarding pass, denial letter, receipts for extra expenses.

2. Submit a claim – File directly with the airline or use a professional service to handle it.

3. Negotiate or escalate – Airlines might delay payment, but you have the right to escalate your claim if they refuse.

Get Your Money Back Now!

Flight overbooked in Bologna? You could be entitled to up to €600. Don’t let the airline keep what’s yours—file your claim today and get your money back!