Flight Overbooking in Athens: What to Do and How to Get Compensation

Understanding Flight Overbooking in Athens

Flight overbooking is a frustrating yet common occurrence in modern air travel. Airlines often sell more tickets than available seats to maximize occupancy, knowing that some passengers may not show up. While this practice is legal under EU law, passengers who are involuntarily denied boarding due to overbooking have rights and could be eligible for compensation of up to €600 under EU Regulation EC 261/2004.

If you have experienced a flight overbooking in Athens International Airport (ATH – Eleftherios Venizelos Airport), you’re not alone. Due to its status as Greece’s busiest airport and a major European hub, overbooking issues frequently arise, especially during peak tourist seasons. But don’t worry—there are solutions available, and you could be owed financial compensation.

What to Do If Your Flight is Overbooked in Athens

If you find yourself unable to board your flight due to overbooking at Athens International Airport, follow these steps:

1. Do Not Voluntarily Give Up Your Seat

Airlines might offer vouchers, upgrades, or incentives in exchange for voluntarily giving up your seat. However, if you accept, you forfeit your right to financial compensation under EU law. Instead, insist on being officially denied boarding.

2. Request Written Confirmation from the Airline

Ask the airline to provide a written statement confirming that you were denied boarding due to overbooking. This document is crucial for filing a compensation claim later.

3. Demand Alternative Transportation

Under EU 261, airlines must offer you a rebooking on the next available flight or a full refund of your ticket. If another airport nearby has available flights (e.g., Thessaloniki Airport – SKG), consider asking the airline to reroute you there. You could reach Thessaloniki in about four hours by train or a short domestic flight.

4. Keep All Receipts

If the airline rebooks you on a later flight, they must cover expenses for meals, accommodation (if necessary), and transport to/from the hotel. Keep all receipts to claim reimbursement.

5. Check If You Qualify for Compensation

If you were denied boarding against your will, you are entitled to compensation of:

• €250 for flights up to 1,500 km

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

• €600 for flights over 3,500 km

6. File Your Compensation Claim

You don’t have to deal with airlines alone. Trouble Flight helps passengers get the compensation they deserve without hassle. Simply enter your flight details on our website, and we’ll handle the process for you!

Why is Flight Overbooking Common in Athens?

Athens International Airport is one of the busiest in Europe, serving over 25 million passengers annually. Several factors contribute to frequent overbooking here:

• High tourism demand: Greece is one of the world’s top tourist destinations, making flights to and from Athens consistently full.

• Seasonal peaks: Summer months and holiday seasons see a massive influx of travelers, leading airlines to overbook flights more aggressively.

• Business and international connections: Athens serves as a gateway between Europe and Asia, increasing flight demand for business travelers.

Alternative Travel Options if Overbooked in Athens

If your flight is overbooked and you need to get to your destination urgently, consider these alternatives:

1. Other Airports in Greece

If you are flying within Europe, you may find last-minute options from nearby airports:

• Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) – Greece’s second busiest airport, with frequent European connections.

• Santorini Airport (JTR) – If your destination is a major European city, Santorini sometimes has available seats.

2. Train and Ferry Connections

For domestic travel, Greece’s ferry network and trains provide alternative routes. If your flight was to an island destination, ferries from Piraeus Port might be an option.

3. Alternative Airlines

If the overbooked flight was with a major airline like Aegean Airlines or Ryanair, check if another airline offers last-minute tickets to your destination.

Common Myths About Flight Overbooking Compensation

Myth #1: The Airline Only Needs to Offer a New Flight

False! Under EU 261, if you're denied boarding due to overbooking, you are entitled to both an alternative flight and monetary compensation.

Myth #2: Compensation is Only for Delayed or Canceled Flights

False! Overbooked passengers have the same rights as those affected by flight cancellations and delays.

Myth #3: You Must Accept the Airline’s Offer

False! Airlines may offer vouchers, discounts, or upgrades to persuade you not to claim compensation. You can still claim cash compensation even if you accept alternative transport.

How to Claim Compensation for an Overbooked Flight in Athens

Claiming your compensation is simple with Trouble Flight:

1. Check Your Eligibility – Use our free tool to see if you qualify for up to €600.

2. Submit Your Claim – Provide your flight details, and our team will handle negotiations with the airline.

3. Get Paid – If successful, you receive your compensation directly to your bank account.

Conclusion: Don’t Let an Overbooked Flight in Athens Cost You Money

If you were denied boarding due to overbooking at Athens International Airport, you don’t have to suffer in silence. EU laws protect your rights, and you could be entitled to €600 in compensation. Don’t settle for airline vouchers—get the money you deserve!

Start your claim now with Trouble Flight and let us fight for your rights.