Flight Overbooking Fiumicino: Your Rights and How to Get Compensation

Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO), officially known as Leonardo da Vinci International Airport, is Italy’s busiest airport and a key gateway to Europe. With millions of passengers passing through its terminals every year, overbooked flights are unfortunately a common occurrence. If you've been denied boarding due to flight overbooking at Fiumicino, you might be entitled to financial compensation under EC261/2004. Let’s explore what you can do to claim what’s yours.

Why Do Airlines Overbook Flights?

Airlines routinely sell more tickets than available seats, anticipating that some passengers will not show up. While this strategy maximizes airline revenue, it often leads to travelers being denied boarding when too many people actually check in. When this happens, the airline must offer compensation, assistance, and alternative travel arrangements.

What to Do If Your Flight Is Overbooked at Fiumicino

If you arrive at Fiumicino Airport only to find out that your flight is overbooked, here’s what you need to do:

1. Do Not Accept Voluntary Compensation Too Soon

The airline may first ask for volunteers to give up their seats in exchange for vouchers, upgrades, or future flight credits. If you’re in no rush, this could be an option. However, if you need to reach your destination as planned, you should not feel pressured into accepting their first offer.

2. Request a Written Statement from the Airline

If you are involuntarily denied boarding, ask the airline for a written confirmation stating that the reason is due to overbooking. This will be useful when filing a compensation claim.

3. Know Your Rights Under EC261/2004

Under European air passenger rights, you may be entitled to compensation based on the flight distance:

• €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 (when departing from the EU)

In addition, the airline must provide you with food, drinks, and accommodation if your alternative flight requires an overnight stay.

Alternative Airports Near Fiumicino

If your flight is overbooked and the next available option is too far off, consider flying from Ciampino Airport (CIA), Rome’s second airport. It’s just 30 km away and serves several European destinations with budget airlines. You can reach Ciampino from Fiumicino via shuttle bus or a combination of train and taxi in under an hour.

Another option is checking flights from Naples Capodichino Airport (NAP), especially if you were planning to fly to a major European or intercontinental destination. Naples is about 1.5 to 2 hours by train from Rome and could have alternative flights with fewer delays.

How to Claim Compensation for an Overbooked Flight

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

To claim your compensation, keep the following ready:

• Your flight ticket or e-ticket confirmation

• The written confirmation of overbooking from the airline

• Any receipts for expenses incurred due to the delay (meals, transport, etc.)

Step 2: Submit a Claim

You can file a compensation request directly with the airline, but be prepared for delays or refusals. To maximize your chances of success, you can use a specialized service like Trouble Flight, which handles the process for you and ensures you receive the maximum amount possible.

Step 3: Follow Up or Escalate

If the airline refuses to pay, you can escalate the case to the national enforcement body or take legal action.

Overbooked at Fiumicino? Claim Up to €600 Today

If you were denied boarding at Fiumicino due to flight overbooking, don’t let the airline get away with it! You could receive up to €600 in compensation for your inconvenience. Start your claim today and let Trouble Flight handle the process while you focus on your travels.

Don't wait—every day you delay might reduce your chances of getting what you’re owed. Claim your money now!