Flight Overbooking at Corvo Airport – What to Do Next?

Understanding Flight Overbooking at Corvo Airport

Corvo Airport (CVU) is the only airport on Corvo Island, the smallest and most remote of the Azores archipelago in Portugal. While the airport itself is modest, it plays a crucial role in connecting Corvo’s residents and visitors to the rest of the world. However, due to the airport’s limited flights and small aircraft, flight overbooking is a real issue that travelers might face.

When airlines overbook flights, they sell more tickets than available seats, assuming some passengers will not show up. However, when everyone arrives, some passengers are denied boarding, leading to frustration and disrupted travel plans. If this happens to you at Corvo Airport, you may be entitled to financial compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004.

Your Rights Under EU261 for Overbooking

If you are denied boarding due to overbooking at Corvo Airport, European law protects you. You could receive compensation of up to €600, depending on the flight distance. Here’s what you need to know:

• Short-haul flights (up to 1,500 km): €250 compensation

• Medium-haul flights (1,500 - 3,500 km): €400 compensation

• Long-haul flights (over 3,500 km): €600 compensation

Additionally, the airline must offer you:

• A replacement flight to your destination

• Meals and refreshments

• Hotel accommodation (if necessary)

• Free transport to and from the airport

Alternative Travel Options from Corvo Airport

Being denied boarding at Corvo Airport can be particularly challenging due to its remote location. If your flight is overbooked, consider these alternatives:

1. Try to Get a Seat on the Next Flight

Corvo Airport is served mainly by SATA Air Açores, which operates daily flights to Flores Island. If your original flight is full, insist on being placed on the next available departure.

2. Fly from Flores Airport (FLW)

If no alternative flights are available from Corvo, you can take a 20-minute ferry to Flores Island, which has more frequent connections to mainland Portugal and other Azores destinations. From there, you may find a better travel alternative.

3. Request a Reroute via Another Airport

The airline is obligated to reroute you as soon as possible. If Corvo flights are limited, ask for a rerouting through another airport, such as Ponta Delgada (PDL) or Terceira (TER), which have more connections.

4. Check Other Airlines

Although SATA dominates flights from Corvo, you may find alternative airlines from Flores or Ponta Delgada that can help you reach your final destination sooner.

Steps to Claim Your Compensation

If you were denied boarding due to overbooking, follow these steps to claim your compensation:

1. Keep Your Documents

Make sure you have:

• Your boarding pass

• Booking confirmation

• Any written communication from the airline regarding the overbooking

2. Request Compensation at the Airport

The airline must provide written confirmation of your denied boarding. Request a document stating that the reason for denial was overbooking.

3. File a Claim

If the airline refuses to compensate you immediately, submit a formal compensation claim. You can do this by:

• Contacting the airline directly

• Using an air passenger rights service like Trouble Flight to handle your case hassle-free

4. Take Legal Action if Necessary

If the airline refuses to pay, Trouble Flight can assist in taking legal action to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

What If You Volunteered to Give Up Your Seat?

Airlines often seek volunteers willing to give up their seats in exchange for perks like travel vouchers, free flights, or cash. While this might be tempting, keep in mind:

• If you voluntarily give up your seat, you may not be eligible for EU261 compensation.

• Make sure the compensation offered by the airline is worth more than the guaranteed legal compensation.

How to Avoid Flight Overbooking Issues in the Future

While overbooking is unpredictable, you can reduce your risk with these tips:

• Check-in early – Airlines prioritize passengers who check in first.

• Avoid budget tickets – Passengers on the cheapest fares are more likely to be bumped.

• Join airline loyalty programs – Frequent flyers often receive priority.

• Choose direct flights – Overbooking is more common on connecting flights.

Conclusion: Get the Compensation You Deserve

If you’ve experienced flight overbooking at Corvo Airport, don’t let the airline get away with it. You have rights, and you could be entitled to up to €600 in compensation. Trouble Flight specializes in handling such claims and can help you recover your money quickly and efficiently.

Don’t wait—check your eligibility today and claim what’s rightfully yours!