Flight Overbooking in Estonia – Know Your Rights and Get Compensation

Understanding Flight Overbooking in Estonia

Flight overbooking is a common issue worldwide, and Estonia is no exception. Airlines often sell more tickets than available seats, anticipating some passengers won't show up. However, when everyone arrives, some travelers get denied boarding. If this happens to you in Estonia, you might be entitled to compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004.

Why Does Overbooking Happen?

Airlines overbook flights to maximize profits, ensuring planes are full even when some passengers cancel or miss their flights. Unfortunately, this practice sometimes backfires, leaving travelers without a seat. While airlines may offer alternative flights or perks, you shouldn’t settle for just a voucher—you may be entitled to cash compensation!

Your Rights Under EU 261 If Overbooked in Estonia

If your flight departs from an Estonian airport or is operated by an EU-based airline, and you're denied boarding due to overbooking, you are protected under EU 261. Here’s what you need to know:

• Compensation ranges from €250 to €600, depending on flight distance.

• The airline must provide an alternative flight or a full refund.

• You’re entitled to meals, refreshments, and hotel accommodation (if necessary).

• Transport to and from the airport must be provided if delays occur.

• You can refuse alternative options and still claim compensation.

How Much Compensation Can You Get?

Compensation for an overbooked flight depends on distance:

• €250 for flights up to 1,500 km (e.g., Tallinn to Helsinki).

• €400 for intra-EU flights over 1,500 km and non-EU flights between 1,500 – 3,500 km.

• €600 for flights beyond 3,500 km (e.g., Tallinn to New York).

What to Do If You’re Denied Boarding in Estonia

1. Stay calm and ask for a written statement from the airline explaining the overbooking.

2. Do not accept travel vouchers unless they include fair compensation.

3. Keep all travel documents, including boarding passes, tickets, and receipts.

4. Ask for assistance (meals, transport, and hotel if necessary).

5. Claim your compensation by filing a request with the airline or through a specialized service like Trouble Flight.

Major Airports in Estonia Where Overbooking Occurs

The primary airport in Estonia is Tallinn Airport (TLL), handling most international flights. However, if you are flying from Tartu Airport (TAY) or Parnu Airport (EPU), overbooking issues may still arise. If your flight is overbooked, consider checking for alternative routes from these nearby airports:

• If your flight from Tallinn is overbooked, try Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL), just a 2-hour ferry ride away. Many additional flights operate from there.

• If departing from Tartu, you could check flights from Riga International Airport (RIX), just a 3-hour drive from Estonia’s southern region.

How to Get to Alternative Airports

• Tallinn to Helsinki: Take a ferry (2 hours) or a fast helicopter ride (18 min).

• Tartu to Riga: Direct bus services (3.5 hours) or drive via E67.

Common Airlines Overbooking in Estonia

Some airlines have a higher tendency to overbook. Travelers in Estonia often report overbooking issues with:

• Finnair (Tallinn to Helsinki and beyond)

• Lufthansa (Connections via Frankfurt and Munich)

• Ryanair & Wizz Air (Budget flights to Europe)

• airBaltic (Hub in Riga with flights to multiple destinations)

If your airline overbooks, you are not obligated to accept their first offer. Demand fair compensation under EU 261.

What If the Airline Refuses to Pay?

If the airline refuses to compensate you or delays your claim, you can:

1. File a formal complaint with Estonia’s Consumer Protection and Technical Regulatory Authority (TTJA).

2. Seek legal assistance or use a flight compensation service.

3. Contact Trouble Flight—we handle the paperwork and legal process to get you paid!

Final Advice: Don't Leave Money on the Table!

Flight overbooking is frustrating, but you don’t have to accept unfair treatment. If you’re denied boarding in Estonia, know your rights and claim up to €600 in compensation today. Check your eligibility and get your money now!