Flight Overbooking in Katowice: Your Rights and How to Claim Compensation

Katowice, one of Poland’s fastest-growing cities, is a hub for both business and leisure travelers. Katowice Airport (KTW), officially known as Katowice Wojciech Korfanty Airport, serves millions of passengers yearly. Unfortunately, with the rise in air travel, cases of flight overbooking have become more frequent. If you’ve been denied boarding due to overbooking, you may be entitled to compensation under European regulations.

Why Do Airlines Overbook Flights?

Overbooking is a common airline practice where more tickets are sold than available seats. Airlines assume that some passengers won’t show up, maximizing their revenue per flight. However, when all passengers arrive, some travelers are left stranded. If this happens to you in Katowice, don't panic—you have rights, and you might be owed up to €600.

What to Do If Your Flight Is Overbooked at Katowice Airport

If you find yourself denied boarding due to overbooking, follow these steps to protect your rights and claim compensation:

1. Don’t Volunteer to Give Up Your Seat

Airlines often ask for volunteers to give up their seats in exchange for vouchers or other benefits. If you accept, you waive your right to standard compensation. If you need to reach your destination on time, consider whether their offer is truly worth it.

2. Ask for a Written Explanation

The airline must provide a written document explaining why you were denied boarding. This document is crucial when filing your compensation claim.

3. Request an Alternative Flight or Refund

Under EU Regulation 261/2004, airlines must offer you:

• A full refund if you no longer wish to travel.

• An alternative flight to your destination, either as soon as possible or at a later date convenient for you.

4. Claim Compensation

If the airline denies boarding due to overbooking and you didn't volunteer, you may be entitled to:

• €250 for flights under 1,500 km

• €400 for flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km

• €600 for flights over 3,500 km

This compensation is separate from any alternative flights or refunds you receive.

Alternative Travel Options from Katowice

If you’re stuck at Katowice Airport due to overbooking and need an alternative way to reach your destination, consider these options:

Try Kraków Airport (KRK)

Located about 80 km from Katowice, Kraków John Paul II International Airport offers many international flights. You can get there in about an hour via train or car.

• By train: The Katowice-Kraków train runs frequently and costs about €5-€10.

• By car/taxi: A direct taxi ride costs around €50, or you can rent a car for flexibility.

If your flight from Katowice was canceled or overbooked, checking Kraków Airport for alternative flights might save you valuable time.

Take a Train to Your Destination

Poland has an excellent rail network, and in some cases, taking a high-speed train might be a faster and more convenient option than waiting for another flight.

Common Routes Affected by Overbooking at Katowice Airport

Some airlines are more likely to overbook flights, especially on popular routes. Here are some commonly affected destinations:

• Katowice to London (Luton, Stansted, Gatwick) – High demand and frequent overbooking

• Katowice to Frankfurt – Business travelers often face overbooking issues

• Katowice to Amsterdam – Major transit hub with frequent capacity issues

• Katowice to Warsaw – Short-haul domestic flights sometimes suffer from overbooking

If you’re flying one of these routes and experience overbooking, be prepared to assert your rights.

How to Claim Compensation for Overbooking

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

To successfully claim compensation, collect the following:

• Your flight ticket or booking confirmation

• Boarding pass (if issued)

• Any communication from the airline about the overbooking

• Receipts for any additional expenses caused by the delay (hotel, meals, transport)

Step 2: Contact the Airline

Formally request compensation from the airline. Mention EU Regulation 261/2004 and specify the amount you are owed.

Step 3: Let Trouble Flight Handle Your Claim

If the airline refuses or delays your compensation, we can take over. Our team specializes in handling flight disruption claims, ensuring you get the money you deserve—quickly and hassle-free.

Real Stories: Passengers Who Claimed Compensation

Anna’s Trip to London

Anna, a frequent traveler from Katowice, was denied boarding on her flight to London. The airline offered her a €100 voucher, but she knew her rights. After contacting us, she received €400 in compensation.

Marcin’s Business Flight to Frankfurt

Marcin had an urgent meeting in Frankfurt, but his flight was overbooked. He took a later flight but also claimed €250 in compensation for the inconvenience.

Why Choose Trouble Flight?

• No win, no fee: We only get paid if you do.

• Fast and hassle-free: We handle everything for you.

• Expert legal support: Our team ensures the airline pays what you’re owed.

Get Your Compensation Today!

If your flight was overbooked at Katowice Airport, don’t let the airline get away with it. Claim up to €600 in compensation now!