Flight Overbooking in Bergamo – Your Rights and Compensation

Understanding Flight Overbooking at Bergamo Airport

Bergamo, officially known as Orio al Serio International Airport (BGY), is one of Italy’s busiest airports, serving millions of passengers yearly. As a popular hub for low-cost carriers like Ryanair, flight overbooking can be a frequent issue. Airlines often sell more tickets than available seats, expecting some passengers to miss their flights. But when everyone shows up, some travelers are left stranded.

If you were denied boarding due to overbooking at Bergamo Airport, you might be entitled to compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004. In this guide, we’ll explain your rights, how much you can claim, and what steps you should take immediately.

Why Do Airlines Overbook Flights?

Overbooking is a common airline practice to maximize revenue and minimize empty seats. Carriers use statistical models to predict no-shows, but sometimes, they miscalculate. When that happens, they need volunteers to give up their seats. If no one volunteers, passengers are involuntarily bumped from the flight.

What to Do If Your Flight Is Overbooked in Bergamo

If you’re denied boarding due to overbooking at Bergamo Airport, follow these steps:

1. Do Not Accept Vouchers or Alternative Flights Immediately – Airlines might offer a travel voucher or rerouting, but before accepting, check if you qualify for monetary compensation.

2. Request a Written Explanation – Ask the airline to provide a written statement confirming that overbooking was the reason for your denied boarding.

3. Keep All Travel Documents – Boarding passes, e-tickets, and any written communication from the airline are essential for your claim.

4. Check Your Eligibility for Compensation – Under EU Regulation 261, you may claim up to €600 in compensation depending on flight distance.

5. Ask for Immediate Assistance – If you're stuck at the airport, airlines must provide food, drinks, and, if necessary, accommodation.

How Much Compensation Can You Get?

Your compensation depends on the distance of your flight:

• €250 – Flights up to 1,500 km

• €400 – Flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km

• €600 – Flights over 3,500 km

The compensation is independent of the ticket price. Even if you paid only €50 for a low-cost flight, you could still claim up to €600.

Alternative Airports Near Bergamo to Consider

If you're stuck in Bergamo due to an overbooked flight, consider nearby airports as an alternative. Milan has two major airports:

• Milan Linate Airport (LIN) – About 50 km from Bergamo

• Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) – Around 90 km from Bergamo

You can reach these airports via shuttle buses, trains, or taxis. Checking flights from these locations might save you time instead of waiting for an alternative seat at Bergamo.

How to Travel Between Bergamo and Milan Airports

• Bus: Several shuttle services connect Bergamo Airport with Milan’s airports and city center, with frequent departures throughout the day.

• Train: You can take a train from Bergamo city center to Milan Centrale, then transfer to another train or bus to Malpensa or Linate.

• Taxi or Rideshare: A direct taxi ride to Malpensa can take about 90 minutes, while Linate is closer and more accessible.

Can You Claim Compensation If You Accept an Alternative Flight?

Yes! Even if the airline offers an alternative flight, you may still be entitled to compensation. The amount depends on the delay in reaching your final destination:

• Delay under 3 hours – No compensation

• Delay between 3-4 hours – 50% of the compensation amount

• Delay over 4 hours – Full compensation

How to File a Claim for Flight Overbooking Compensation

Filing a claim for overbooking compensation is easier than you think. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Gather Your Documents – Keep your booking confirmation, boarding pass, and any airline correspondence.

2. Submit a Formal Claim to the Airline – Airlines have specific procedures for compensation claims.

3. Use a Claim Service – If the airline refuses or delays payment, professional claim services like Trouble Flight can handle the process for you.

Why Choose Trouble Flight for Your Compensation Claim?

At Trouble Flight, we specialize in helping passengers claim compensation for flight disruptions. We handle everything from paperwork to negotiations with airlines, ensuring you get the money you deserve. No win, no fee—so you don’t pay anything unless we secure your compensation!

Don’t let an overbooked flight ruin your plans! Claim up to €600 in compensation today.