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

Flying from Budapest is usually a smooth experience, but sometimes, overbooking can turn your journey into a nightmare. Airlines often sell more tickets than available seats, leaving passengers stranded. If you've been denied boarding due to overbooking at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD), you might be entitled to financial compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004. Here’s everything you need to know about your rights, what steps to take, and how to maximize your claim.

Why Does Flight Overbooking Happen in Budapest?

Airlines overbook flights to maximize profits, knowing that some passengers will not show up. While this practice is legal, it often leads to frustration when more passengers arrive than there are available seats. Budapest, being a major hub for both low-cost and international airlines, sees a fair share of overbooking incidents, particularly on popular routes to Western Europe and beyond.

Your Rights When Overbooked in Budapest

Under EU Regulation 261/2004, if you are denied boarding due to overbooking, you are entitled to compensation, depending on the flight distance:

• €250 for flights up to 1,500 km (e.g., Budapest to Berlin, Vienna, or Milan)

• €400 for flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km (e.g., Budapest to Madrid, London, or Istanbul)

• €600 for flights over 3,500 km (e.g., Budapest to Dubai, New York, or Toronto)

In addition to compensation, the airline must offer alternative transportation or a full refund, plus meals, hotel accommodation (if necessary), and access to communication.

What to Do If Your Flight Is Overbooked in Budapest

If you are denied boarding at Budapest Airport, follow these steps to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve:

1. Do Not Accept Vouchers Right Away

Airlines may try to offer vouchers instead of cash compensation. While this might seem tempting, it’s often worth much less than the compensation you’re entitled to. Always ask for cash instead.

2. Request a Written Statement from the Airline

Insist on receiving a written confirmation stating that you were denied boarding due to overbooking. This document will strengthen your claim.

3. Ask for Immediate Assistance

The airline is required to provide you with:

• Free meals and drinks

• Hotel accommodation if needed

• Transport to and from the airport if rebooking is for the next day

• Two free phone calls or emails

4. Check Alternative Airports

If you need to reach your destination urgently, consider flying from Vienna International Airport (VIE). It’s just 2.5 hours by train or bus from Budapest, and you may find an alternative flight with another airline. FlixBus and ÖBB trains provide frequent connections to Vienna Airport.

5. File a Compensation Claim

Submit your claim directly to the airline or use a specialized service like Trouble Flight to handle the process for you. Claims are typically processed within a few weeks, and if the airline refuses to pay, legal action can be taken.

Which Airlines Are Most Likely to Overbook in Budapest?

Overbooking is more common among budget airlines and long-haul carriers. The airlines with the most reported overbooking cases at Budapest Airport include:

• Ryanair – Frequently overbooks popular European routes.

• Wizz Air – As Budapest’s home carrier, it often sells more tickets than available seats.

• Lufthansa – Common on flights to Frankfurt and Munich.

• Air France/KLM – Long-haul flights via Paris and Amsterdam are often overbooked.

• Turkish Airlines – Routes to Istanbul sometimes have more bookings than seats.

Can You Avoid Overbooking Problems in Budapest?

While overbooking is unpredictable, you can reduce your chances of being bumped by following these tips:

• Check-in online early – The earlier you check in, the less likely you’ll be selected for denied boarding.

• Arrive at the airport with plenty of time – Late arrivals are more likely to be denied boarding.

• Book direct flights – Connecting flights increase the risk of missing your second flight due to delays.

• Join an airline’s loyalty program – Frequent flyers are often prioritized over casual travelers.

What If Your Flight Is Delayed or Canceled Instead?

Flight disruptions at Budapest Airport aren’t limited to overbooking. If your flight is delayed by more than three hours or canceled, you could still be entitled to compensation. Airlines must provide rebooking or refunds, and if the delay is long, they must cover meals and accommodation.

Final Thoughts: Get the Compensation You Deserve

Being denied boarding due to flight overbooking in Budapest is frustrating, but you don’t have to accept it without compensation. You could be owed up to €600, and claiming it is easier than you think. If you're unsure how to proceed, Trouble Flight can handle your claim and ensure you get the money you’re entitled to.

Don’t let airlines get away with overbooking—start your claim today!