Flight Overbooking in Georgia – Your Rights & How to Claim Compensation

Understanding Flight Overbooking in Georgia

Flight overbooking is a common practice among airlines, including those operating in Georgia. Carriers sell more tickets than available seats, anticipating that some passengers won’t show up. However, when everyone arrives, some travelers are left stranded at the airport. If this happened to you in Tbilisi, Batumi, or Kutaisi, you might be eligible for financial compensation under European Regulation EC261 or other applicable laws.

Why Do Airlines Overbook Flights?

Airlines rely on statistical models to predict no-shows and maximize profits. However, when their calculations are wrong, passengers face unexpected disruptions. The good news? You have rights.

Can You Get Compensation for an Overbooked Flight in Georgia?

Yes! If you were denied boarding due to overbooking on a flight departing from Georgia or an EU airline flying into Georgia, you could claim up to €600. The exact 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

You must not have voluntarily given up your seat to be eligible. If you were forced to stay behind despite having a valid ticket, your compensation claim is valid.

What to Do If Your Flight Is Overbooked in Georgia

If you’re stuck at the airport due to an overbooked flight, follow these steps to increase your chances of getting compensation:

1. Do Not Voluntarily Accept Vouchers or a Rescheduled Flight

Airlines often offer alternative flights or travel vouchers. If you accept them, you might waive your right to compensation.

2. Ask for a Written Confirmation

Request a written statement from the airline acknowledging that you were denied boarding due to overbooking. This will support your claim.

3. Save Your Flight Documents

Keep your boarding pass, e-ticket, and any communications from the airline.

4. Track Additional Expenses

If you had to book a hotel, take a taxi, or buy food due to the disruption, keep all receipts. You can claim reimbursement for these costs.

5. Check Nearby Airports for Alternative Departures

If you’re in Tbilisi and flights are overbooked, consider checking Batumi International Airport or Kutaisi International Airport. A quick train or shuttle ride could get you to another departure point, increasing your chances of catching a flight with a different airline.

6. Claim Your Compensation

File your claim with Trouble Flight to ensure you receive the compensation you’re owed.

Overbooked at Tbilisi, Batumi, or Kutaisi Airport? Here’s What You Should Know

Georgia is a growing hub for international travel, with Tbilisi International Airport handling the majority of flights. However, Batumi and Kutaisi airports also serve thousands of passengers daily, making overbooking a frequent issue.

• Tbilisi International Airport (TBS): As the busiest airport in Georgia, overbooking is more common here. If you’re stuck, consider alternative flights from Batumi or Kutaisi.

• Batumi International Airport (BUS): This airport serves many seasonal flights. If your flight is overbooked, ask the airline if there’s an alternative from Tbilisi or Kutaisi.

• Kutaisi International Airport (KUT): A popular low-cost hub. If an overbooking affects your travel plans, check options at Tbilisi or Batumi airports.

How to Get to Another Airport in Georgia Quickly

If you’re denied boarding at one airport, it’s worth checking flights from another. Georgia’s small size makes it easy to transfer between airports:

• Tbilisi to Batumi: Take a train (5 hours), bus (6 hours), or a quick 50-minute flight.

• Tbilisi to Kutaisi: A direct shuttle (3.5 hours) is available.

• Batumi to Kutaisi: A short 2-hour drive or shuttle ride.

These options could help you secure another flight sooner, rather than waiting for the next available seat from the same airport.

Legal Basis for Compensation

Under EC261, passengers flying from Georgia on EU airlines or from an EU airport to Georgia are covered. Other regulations may apply depending on the airline and route. Trouble Flight specializes in handling these claims, ensuring you receive what you’re entitled to without the hassle of dealing with airlines.

How Long Do You Have to Claim Compensation for an Overbooked Flight in Georgia?

The timeframe for claiming compensation depends on local laws. In most cases, you have up to three years to file a claim, but it’s always best to act as soon as possible.

Avoiding Overbooking Issues in Georgia

While overbooking is beyond passengers' control, here are some tips to reduce the risk of being denied boarding:

• Check in early. Passengers who check in last are more likely to be bumped.

• Join airline loyalty programs. Frequent flyers often get priority.

• Book directly with the airline. Third-party bookings may have lower priority.

• Travel light. Passengers with checked luggage may be harder to rebook.

Conclusion: Don’t Let Overbooking Ruin Your Trip!

Overbooking can disrupt your travel plans, but you don’t have to accept it without a fight. If you were denied boarding in Georgia, you could be eligible for up to €600 in compensation. Trouble Flight makes claiming simple—submit your details today and get the money you deserve!