Flight Overbooking in Palermo – What to Do and How to Get Compensation

Palermo, the capital of Sicily, is a breathtaking city full of history, culture, and stunning coastlines. However, not every trip through Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO) goes as planned. One of the most frustrating situations for travelers is flight overbooking, where airlines sell more tickets than available seats. If this has happened to you, you may be entitled to compensation of up to €600 under European Regulation EC 261/2004.

Why Do Airlines Overbook Flights?

Airlines practice overbooking to maximize profits, assuming some passengers will not show up. But when too many arrive, some are left behind. If you've been denied boarding in Palermo due to overbooking, you have rights, and airlines must compensate you unless they can arrange an alternative flight within a reasonable time.

What to Do If Your Flight Is Overbooked in Palermo

If you find yourself stuck at Palermo Airport due to overbooking, follow these steps:

1. Do not volunteer to give up your seat – If the airline asks for volunteers, remember that passengers who voluntarily give up their seats might not be entitled to full compensation.

2. Request a written confirmation – Ask the airline for a document stating that you were denied boarding due to overbooking.

3. Check alternative flights – If you’re flying within Italy, consider alternative departures from Trapani Airport (TPS), about 90 km from Palermo. Some airlines operate flights from Trapani to major destinations, and a quick transfer could save your trip. You can reach Trapani Airport by bus, rental car, or taxi.

4. Keep receipts – If you need food, accommodation, or transport due to the delay, keep all receipts as you may claim reimbursement.

5. Claim your compensation – You can claim between €250 and €600, depending on the flight distance.

Compensation for Overbooking – How Much Can You Get?

Under EC 261/2004, compensation depends on the flight distance:

• €250 for flights up to 1,500 km

• €400 for flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km

• €600 for flights over 3,500 km (if departing from an EU airport)

Since most flights from Palermo to other European cities fall within the €250-€400 range, that’s what you can expect. However, if you were flying long-haul, such as to the USA or Asia, the amount can go up to €600.

Can You Get Compensation If the Airline Offers a Different Flight?

Yes! Even if the airline offers an alternative flight, you are still eligible for compensation unless the new flight arrives within a reasonable timeframe:

• If your new flight arrives within 2 hours of the original arrival time (short-haul), or

• If your new flight arrives within 4 hours (long-haul),
  Then the airline may reduce compensation by 50%. But in most cases, if the delay is longer, you get the full amount.

Overbooking in Palermo – Can You Switch Airports?

If your flight from Palermo is overbooked and no alternative flights are available soon, consider looking at departures from Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA). It’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Palermo and serves many of the same routes as PMO. Some airlines even offer shuttle services between Palermo and Catania.

To reach Catania Airport from Palermo:

• By car: A direct drive takes about 2.5 hours via the A19 highway.

• By train: A Trenitalia train from Palermo Centrale to Catania Centrale takes about 3 hours, followed by a quick bus transfer.

• By bus: Direct coach services operate between Palermo and Catania Airport, taking around 3 hours.

Checking flights from Catania could be an alternative if you’re stranded due to overbooking.

How to Claim Your Overbooking Compensation

Filing a claim for compensation might seem complicated, but it’s straightforward if you follow these steps:

1. Gather all documents – Boarding passes, confirmation emails, and the airline’s overbooking notice.

2. Submit a claim – You can do this directly with the airline, but be prepared for delays or refusals.

3. Use a compensation service – If you want to avoid the hassle, let professionals handle your claim and increase your chances of getting paid fast.

Don’t Let Overbooking Ruin Your Trip – Get What You Deserve!

Flight overbooking in Palermo can be frustrating, but you are protected by EU laws. If you’ve been denied boarding, don’t accept a small voucher—you could get up to €600 in cash. Whether you're flying to Rome, London, or Berlin, make sure you get the compensation you're entitled to.

If your flight was overbooked, act now and claim your compensation today!