Flight Overbooking in Foggia – Know Your Rights and Claim Compensation

Foggia, a charming city in southern Italy, is not just a gateway to the stunning Gargano Peninsula but also home to an airport that serves thousands of passengers every year. While it may not be the busiest airport in Italy, travelers flying to and from Foggia often face the frustrating issue of flight overbooking. If you’ve been denied boarding due to overbooking, you may be entitled to compensation of up to €600 under European Regulation EC 261/2004.

Why Do Airlines Overbook Flights?

Airlines frequently sell more tickets than available seats, betting on the likelihood that some passengers won’t show up. While this practice maximizes airline profits, it leaves passengers stranded when everyone shows up for their flight. Overbooking is legal, but passengers have rights when denied boarding involuntarily.

What to Do If Your Flight from Foggia is Overbooked

If you find yourself stuck at Foggia Gino Lisa Airport due to overbooking, follow these steps to strengthen your compensation claim:

• Do not voluntarily give up your seat – If you accept the airline’s offer, such as vouchers or rebooking, you may lose your right to further compensation.

• Ask for a written statement from the airline explaining why you were denied boarding.

• Keep all travel documents, including your boarding pass, ticket, and any communication from the airline.

• Request an alternative flight or a full refund – The airline must offer an alternative route or a full refund of your ticket.

• Claim compensation – You may be entitled to financial compensation based on the flight distance.

How Much Compensation Can You Get for Flight Overbooking in Foggia?

Under EC 261/2004, compensation for denied boarding due to overbooking is calculated as follows:

• €250 for flights up to 1,500 km

• €400 for flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km (or within the EU beyond 1,500 km)

• €600 for flights over 3,500 km

Since most flights from Foggia’s Gino Lisa Airport are domestic or short-haul, compensation typically falls within the €250-€400 range. However, if your connecting flight is long-haul and disrupted, you could be eligible for the highest amount.

Alternative Travel Options If Overbooked in Foggia

Foggia is a relatively small airport with limited flight options, so if you're denied boarding due to overbooking, consider checking flights from nearby airports:

1. Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI)

Located about 120 km from Foggia, Bari Airport offers more frequent flights and alternative airlines. You can reach Bari Airport via:

• Train: A direct train from Foggia to Bari Centrale (about 1.5 hours), followed by a shuttle to the airport.

• Bus: Several bus services operate between Foggia and Bari Airport.

• Rental Car or Taxi: A direct drive takes around 90 minutes.

2. Naples Capodichino Airport (NAP)

Naples Airport, about 170 km from Foggia, provides more international connections. Travel options include:

• Train: A train from Foggia to Naples (2-2.5 hours) followed by a bus or taxi to the airport.

• Bus: Direct buses to Naples operate frequently.

• Car: A road trip takes around 2 hours.

Checking alternative flights from these airports could get you to your destination faster and with minimal inconvenience.

Additional Compensation: When Overbooking Causes Delays

If your overbooking situation leads to a significant delay in reaching your final destination, you might also be entitled to additional compensation. According to EC 261/2004:

• 2+ hour delay: The airline must provide meals and refreshments.

• 5+ hour delay: You can request a full refund and compensation.

• Overnight delay: The airline must provide hotel accommodation and transportation.

How to Claim Compensation for Flight Overbooking in Foggia

Claiming compensation is your right, and airlines are obligated to pay. However, they often make the process difficult. Here’s how you can proceed:

1. Submit a Claim Directly to the Airline – Provide details of your flight, booking reference, and a formal request for compensation.

2. Use an Air Passenger Rights Specialist – Companies like Trouble Flight specialize in handling compensation claims and increase your chances of a successful payout.

3. File a Complaint with the National Enforcement Body – If the airline refuses to compensate you, you can escalate your case to the Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC).

Final Thoughts

Flight overbooking in Foggia can be frustrating, but knowing your rights empowers you to take action. Whether you’re flying for business or pleasure, you shouldn’t have to suffer financial loss because an airline sold too many tickets. If you've been denied boarding, take the right steps to claim up to €600 in compensation.

Don’t let airlines get away with it – claim what’s rightfully yours today!