Flight Overbooking in Turkey – What to Do & How to Get Compensation

Turkey, a major hub for international travel, boasts some of the busiest airports in Europe and Asia. From the vast Istanbul Airport (IST) to Antalya (AYT) and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW), millions of passengers transit daily. With this immense air traffic, overbooked flights are an unfortunate reality, leaving many travelers stranded. If you’ve been denied boarding due to flight overbooking in Turkey, you may be eligible for compensation of up to €600. Here’s everything you need to know to take action immediately.

Why Do Airlines Overbook Flights in Turkey?

Flight overbooking happens when airlines sell more tickets than available seats, betting that some passengers won’t show up. While this helps airlines maximize profit, it often leaves travelers stranded, frustrated, and scrambling for alternative flights. Major airlines flying through Turkey, including Turkish Airlines, Pegasus, and SunExpress, frequently overbook flights, particularly on popular routes between Europe and the Middle East.

Your Rights Under EC261 & Turkish Aviation Laws

If you’re flying from Turkey to the EU (or within the EU on a Turkish airline), you’re protected under EU Regulation EC261/2004, which entitles you to compensation if you’re denied boarding due to overbooking. Even for domestic flights, Turkish aviation laws align closely with international standards, providing some level of protection.

Compensation You May Be Entitled To:

• €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

Additionally, airlines must provide meals, accommodation (if needed), and an alternative flight at no extra cost.

What to Do If Your Flight in Turkey Is Overbooked

1. Do Not Volunteer Your Seat Right Away

Airlines often ask for volunteers in exchange for vouchers or perks. If you accept, you may waive your right to full monetary compensation. Unless the alternative offer is exceptionally beneficial, hold your ground.

2. Request Immediate Proof of Denied Boarding

Ask for a written statement confirming you were denied boarding due to overbooking. This document strengthens your compensation claim.

3. Get Details About the Next Available Flight

If you need to reach your destination urgently, check if other nearby airports offer alternative flights. For example, if you’re overbooked at Istanbul Airport (IST), you may find a quicker flight at Sabiha Gökçen (SAW). Similarly, if you’re stranded in Antalya (AYT), you might check Dalaman (DLM) or Bodrum (BJV) for an alternative route.

4. Ensure Your Expenses Are Covered

Under EC261, you are entitled to food, hotel accommodation (if required), and transportation to and from the airport if your next flight departs the following day. Keep all receipts as proof.

5. Claim Your Compensation

You can file a compensation claim yourself or work with a specialized service like Trouble Flight to handle the process for you. Airlines often make the claim process difficult, but an expert service ensures you get what you deserve without unnecessary delays.

Alternative Airports in Turkey – A Backup Plan

If your flight is overbooked and you’re facing long delays, consider checking departures from another airport nearby. Here’s how you can pivot quickly:

• Istanbul (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen (SAW): If your flight at IST is overbooked, you may find alternatives at SAW, located about an hour away. Shuttle buses and taxis provide easy transfers between the two.

• Antalya (AYT) or Dalaman (DLM): Many Mediterranean-bound travelers can find alternative flights from Dalaman, about 3 hours away from Antalya by road.

• Ankara Esenboğa (ESB) or Konya (KYA): If overbooked in Ankara, Konya Airport might offer a nearby alternative with flights to major destinations.

How Long Do You Have to Claim Compensation?

In Turkey, you typically have up to three years to file an overbooking compensation claim, depending on the airline’s legal structure. However, it’s best to act quickly while evidence is fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Get Compensation If I Accept an Alternative Flight?

Yes, even if the airline provides an alternative flight, you’re still entitled to compensation as long as you were denied boarding against your will.

Do I Need a Lawyer to Claim Compensation?

No, but airlines often use legal loopholes to avoid paying. Trouble Flight specializes in handling claims efficiently, ensuring you get the maximum amount.

What If I Was Flying on a Budget Airline?

Low-cost carriers like Pegasus, Ryanair, or Wizz Air still have to comply with EC261 if they overbook your flight.

Take Action Now – Get Your Compensation Today!

Overbooking is an airline’s way of maximizing profits at the expense of passengers. Don’t let them take advantage of you. If your flight in Turkey was overbooked, you could be entitled to up to €600 in compensation. Trouble Flight makes the process easy – submit your claim today and let us fight for what you’re owed!