Flight Overbooking in Czech Republic – How to Claim Your Compensation

What to Do If Your Flight Is Overbooked in the Czech Republic

Imagine arriving at the airport, ready for your journey, only to be told that there’s no seat for you despite having a valid ticket. This frustrating situation, known as flight overbooking, happens more often than you think. Airlines in the Czech Republic and across Europe frequently overbook flights, anticipating that some passengers won’t show up. However, when everyone arrives, some travelers get denied boarding.

If this happened to you, you have rights under EU Regulation EC261, which protects air passengers. You may be eligible for compensation of up to €600, depending on your flight distance and circumstances. This guide will help you understand your rights, what steps to take, and how to maximize your compensation.

Why Do Airlines Overbook Flights?

Airlines use data analysis to estimate the number of passengers who may miss their flight. Based on these projections, they sell more tickets than available seats, assuming some travelers will cancel or not show up. While this practice maximizes airline profits, it often leads to passenger inconvenience when more people arrive than expected.

When an airline overbooks and cannot accommodate everyone, it follows a boarding priority system:

• Volunteers First – The airline will ask if anyone is willing to give up their seat in exchange for vouchers, rebooking, or other perks.

• Involuntary Denied Boarding – If no one volunteers, the airline forces some passengers to stay behind. In this case, you have strong rights, including a financial claim under EC261.

Your Passenger Rights in the Czech Republic for Overbooked Flights

Under EC261, airlines must compensate you if you’re involuntarily denied boarding due to overbooking, provided that:
✔️ You have a confirmed reservation and a valid ticket.
✔️ You arrived on time for check-in.
✔️ The flight departed from an EU country (like the Czech Republic) or landed in the EU on an EU airline.

Compensation Amounts for Overbooked Flights

The compensation amount depends on the flight distance:

• €250 – Flights up to 1,500 km (e.g., Prague to Vienna, Berlin).

• €400 – Flights between 1,500 and 3,500 km (e.g., Prague to London, Madrid).

• €600 – Flights over 3,500 km (e.g., Prague to New York, Dubai).

Additionally, the airline must offer you:

• An alternative flight to your destination.

• Food and drinks during waiting times.

• Accommodation if your next flight is the next day.

• Transport to and from the hotel if necessary.

What to Do When Your Flight Is Overbooked in the Czech Republic?

Step 1: Do Not Volunteer for a Seat Swap Immediately

Airlines will often ask for volunteers in exchange for flight vouchers. While this might seem appealing, it waives your right to monetary compensation under EC261. Instead, wait for an official denial of boarding before deciding.

Step 2: Ask for a Written Confirmation of Your Denied Boarding

Request a written statement from the airline that states the reason you were denied boarding. This document strengthens your claim for compensation.

Step 3: Keep Your Documents

Ensure you keep:
📌 Your boarding pass and ticket confirmation.
📌 Any airline communications regarding overbooking.
📌 Receipts for extra expenses like food, hotels, or taxis (you can request reimbursement).

Step 4: Request an Alternative Flight

Most flights from Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG) or Brno-Tuřany Airport (BRQ) have alternatives on other airlines. Check other nearby airports such as:

• Dresden Airport (DRS) in Germany (Just 1.5 hours from Prague by train)

• Vienna International Airport (VIE) (4 hours from Brno via direct train)

If another airport offers better flight options, you can ask the airline to cover transport costs to get there.

Best Ways to Reach Other Airports from Prague

If your flight was overbooked at Prague Airport (PRG), consider these alternative travel routes:

✈️ Prague to Dresden Airport (DRS)
🚆 Take the EuroCity (EC) train from Prague to Dresden Hbf (2 hours), then a quick shuttle to the airport.

✈️ Prague to Vienna International Airport (VIE)
🚆 A direct RegioJet train from Prague to Vienna (4 hours), then take the airport shuttle.

✈️ Prague to Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)
🚆 Take a Flixbus or EC train from Prague to Berlin in 4 hours.

If the airline refuses to pay for transport, keep receipts and claim reimbursement later.

How to Claim Overbooking Compensation in the Czech Republic

Option 1: Claim Directly from the Airline

You can file a claim with the airline by filling out their EC261 compensation form. However, airlines often delay payments or reject claims using technical loopholes.

Option 2: Let Experts Handle Your Claim

At Trouble Flight, we specialize in fighting airlines to get passengers their rightful compensation. No win, no fee – we only get paid when you do!

💰 Submit your claim today and get up to €600 for your overbooked flight!

Real Example: Overbooked Flight at Prague Airport

One of our clients, Jakub, booked a flight from Prague to Paris. Upon arriving at the airport, he was told that his seat was no longer available due to overbooking.

➡️ The airline offered a €150 travel voucher, but Jakub knew his rights.
➡️ He refused to volunteer and officially requested compensation.
➡️ With our help, he secured a €400 payout within weeks!

Moral of the story? Always fight for your rights.

Overbooking at Czech Airports – Your Rights Are Protected

Flight overbooking is not your fault – it’s the airline’s responsibility to compensate you. Whether you’re flying from Prague, Brno, Ostrava, or another Czech airport, you have a legal right to claim compensation.

Don't let airlines get away with overbooking. Submit your claim now and get the money you deserve!