Overbooking Germany

What to Do If Your Flight Is Overbooked in Germany?

Germany is home to some of the busiest airports in Europe, including Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin Brandenburg. With millions of passengers traveling each year, airlines often oversell tickets, expecting some travelers not to show up. But when everyone arrives, you might get denied boarding due to overbooking. If this happens, you have rights – and you could be entitled to up to €600 in compensation.

Why Do Airlines Overbook Flights?

Airlines oversell seats because they anticipate no-shows. By selling more tickets than available, they ensure maximum occupancy, increasing their profits. However, when all passengers show up, some travelers are forcibly bumped.

Your Rights Under EU261 in Germany

EU Regulation 261/2004 protects passengers departing from Germany (or arriving on an EU airline) when flights are delayed, canceled, or overbooked. If you are denied boarding against your will due to overbooking, you are legally entitled to:

• Compensation between €250 and €600, depending on flight distance
• Alternative flight arrangements at no extra cost
• Meals and refreshments while you wait
• Hotel accommodation if the next flight is on the following day

Compensation Table for Overbooking in Germany

What to Do If Your Flight is Overbooked in Germany?

1. Do not voluntarily give up your seat unless the airline offers a deal that suits you.
2. Ask for proof that you were denied boarding due to overbooking.
3. Request immediate compensation or rebooking on the next available flight.
4. Keep receipts for any extra expenses, such as meals or transport to a hotel.
5. Submit a compensation claim with Trouble Flight to ensure you get the money you deserve.

Alternative Airports in Germany – Rebooking Options

If you are stuck due to overbooking, consider alternative airports nearby. For example:

• Frankfurt (FRA) & Frankfurt-Hahn (HHN) – If overbooked at Frankfurt Airport, check for flights from Hahn, about 120 km away, reachable by bus or rental car.
• Munich (MUC) & Nuremberg (NUE) – Overbooked in Munich? Nuremberg is under two hours by train, offering additional flight options.
• Berlin Brandenburg (BER) & Leipzig (LEJ) – If Berlin flights are full, Leipzig is a 90-minute train ride away.

Switching airports might get you to your destination faster than waiting for the airline’s next available flight.

Compensation Even If the Airline Offers an Alternative Flight

Many travelers assume that if they accept an alternative flight, they forfeit their right to compensation. This is false. Even if the airline rebooks you on another flight within hours, you may still claim up to €600.

Overbooking in Germany – Common Airlines and Passenger Rights

Some airlines are notorious for overbooking flights, especially on popular routes from Germany. These include:

• Lufthansa – Germany’s flag carrier frequently overbooks due to high demand.
• Eurowings – Budget airline flights can be oversold, particularly in peak seasons.
• Ryanair & EasyJet – Low-cost airlines often rely on full flights, leading to more overbooking cases.

Regardless of the airline, EU261 applies equally, and you have the right to compensation, rerouting, and care.

How to Claim Your Overbooking Compensation in Germany

The airline might delay or refuse to pay compensation. That’s where Trouble Flight helps:

1. Submit your case with us – It takes just a few minutes.
2. We handle negotiations with the airline on your behalf.
3. You receive your compensation – No risk, no hassle!

If your flight was overbooked in Germany, don’t let the airline avoid paying what they owe. Claim your compensation today!