Flight Overbooking Chișinău: What to Do and How to Claim Compensation

Chișinău International Airport (KIV) is Moldova's main airport, handling thousands of passengers daily. However, due to high demand and airline policies, overbooking remains a common issue. If you've been denied boarding because of flight overbooking in Chișinău, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Here’s everything you need to know about your rights and how to claim up to 600€ in compensation for your inconvenience.

Why Do Airlines Overbook Flights?

Airlines overbook flights intentionally, expecting some passengers to miss their flights. This practice helps maximize revenue but creates significant problems for passengers left behind. If you've been denied boarding against your will, EU Regulation EC 261/2004 protects your rights—even if you’re flying with a non-EU airline, as long as your flight departs from Chișinău to an EU destination.

Your Rights Under EC 261 for Flight Overbooking

If you are denied boarding due to overbooking, airlines must offer you:

• Financial Compensation: Up to 600€, depending on the flight distance.

• Alternative Transportation: Either the next available flight or rebooking at your convenience.

• Meals and Refreshments: If your wait time is prolonged.

• Hotel Accommodation: If your new flight departs the next day.

• Reimbursement Option: If you no longer wish to travel.

How Much Compensation Can You Get?

The compensation amount depends on the distance of your flight:

• 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 (if flying to a non-EU destination)

This applies as long as the overbooking was not caused by extraordinary circumstances such as extreme weather conditions or airport strikes.

What to Do If Your Flight Is Overbooked in Chișinău

If you find yourself in this situation, follow these steps to strengthen your compensation claim:

1. Do Not Voluntarily Give Up Your Seat

Airlines often seek volunteers to accept compensation in return for giving up their seats. If you accept their offer, you might waive your right to additional compensation.

2. Request a Written Explanation

Ask the airline staff for a written confirmation stating that you were denied boarding due to overbooking.

3. Keep All Travel Documents

Hold onto your boarding pass, booking confirmation, and any receipts for expenses incurred.

4. Claim Your Compensation

Airlines may not proactively inform you of your rights. You can file a claim with Trouble Flight to handle the legal process and maximize your compensation.

Alternative Travel Options If Your Flight Is Overbooked

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

• Check flights from Iași International Airport (IAS) – located just two hours away from Chișinău, Iași offers direct flights to many European destinations. You can reach it via bus, taxi, or car rental.

• Look for Alternative Airlines at KIV – Some budget carriers or other airlines might have last-minute availability.

• Consider Overnight Buses to Nearby European Hubs – If no alternative flight is available, buses to Bucharest or Odessa could provide a backup plan.

How to Reach Iași International Airport from Chișinău

If you decide to try a flight from Iași, you can reach the airport through:

• Direct Buses: Several daily buses connect Chișinău and Iași.

• Taxi or Rideshare: A direct taxi ride takes about two hours.

• Car Rental: Rent a vehicle for flexible travel options.

Avoiding Future Flight Overbooking Issues

While you can’t completely prevent overbooking, you can reduce your risk by:

• Checking in Online as Early as Possible – Late check-ins increase the chance of being bumped.

• Joining an Airline’s Frequent Flyer Program – Elite members are less likely to be denied boarding.

• Booking Directly with Airlines Instead of Third-Party Websites – This ensures better customer support in case of issues.

How Trouble Flight Can Help

Filing a compensation claim can be a long and frustrating process, but Trouble Flight makes it easy. We handle the entire legal process for you, ensuring that you receive the maximum compensation possible. Best of all, we operate on a no win, no fee basis—you only pay if we succeed!

Claim Your Compensation Today!

If you've experienced a flight overbooking in Chișinău, don’t leave money on the table. Submit your claim now and let Trouble Flight fight for your compensation!