Flight Overbooking in Kraków – Your Rights and How to Claim Compensation

Understanding Flight Overbooking in Kraków

Flying from Kraków can be an exciting experience, but it can quickly turn into frustration when your flight is overbooked. Airlines frequently sell more tickets than available seats, betting on some passengers not showing up. When all passengers do arrive, some are left stranded at the airport. If this happens to you at John Paul II Kraków-Balice International Airport (KRK), you have rights under EU Regulation 261/2004.

Why Do Airlines Overbook Flights?

Airlines overbook flights to maximize revenue, assuming a percentage of passengers will cancel or miss their flights. However, when all ticket holders show up, they must deny boarding to some travelers. If you are one of them, you are entitled to compensation, alternative flights, and assistance.

What to Do If Your Flight is Overbooked in Kraków

If you are denied boarding due to overbooking at Kraków Airport, follow these steps:

1. Do Not Accept Vouchers Immediately – Airlines may offer travel vouchers or incentives, but these often come with restrictions. Instead, insist on financial compensation.

2. Request Written Proof – Ask the airline for a written statement confirming that you were denied boarding due to overbooking.

3. Know Your Compensation Rights – You can claim up to €600 in compensation depending on the flight distance.

4. Ask for an Alternative Flight – Airlines must offer a replacement flight or a full refund if you decide not to travel.

5. Keep All Documents – Boarding passes, tickets, receipts for expenses, and any communication with the airline can strengthen your claim.

How Much Compensation Can You Get for an Overbooked Flight?

Under EU261, the compensation varies by 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 (outside the EU)

If your overbooked flight was within Europe, the maximum you can receive is €400. For long-haul flights departing from or arriving in the EU, you may be entitled to the full €600.

Alternative Airports Near Kraków – A Smart Strategy

If you are stranded in Kraków due to an overbooked flight, consider checking for alternative departures. The nearest major airport is Katowice Airport (KTW), located around 100 km away. Many low-cost and international airlines operate from Katowice, offering alternative flights to your destination.

How to Get to Katowice Airport from Kraków

• Train: Direct trains run from Kraków Główny to Katowice, taking around 1 hour.

• Bus: FlixBus and other operators provide direct services between the cities in 1.5 hours.

• Car Rental or Taxi: A taxi ride takes approximately 1 hour and costs around €80-100.

Checking alternative routes can help you reach your destination sooner rather than waiting for a rescheduled flight from Kraków.

What If the Airline Offers a New Flight?

If the airline arranges another flight for you, the following rules apply:

• If your replacement flight arrives within 2 hours of your original arrival time, compensation may be reduced by 50%.

• If the delay extends beyond 3 hours, you are still entitled to full compensation.

You are also entitled to free meals, accommodation (if necessary), and access to communication services if you must wait overnight.

Can You Claim Compensation If You Accept an Alternative Flight?

Yes! Accepting an alternative flight does not waive your right to compensation. If you arrive at your destination with a delay of more than 3 hours, you can still claim your rightful €250-600.

How to Claim Compensation for an Overbooked Flight in Kraków

1. Check Eligibility – Verify whether your flight qualifies under EU261 regulations.

2. Gather Evidence – Keep copies of your boarding pass, denial of boarding notice, and any receipts for additional expenses.

3. Submit a Claim – You can file a claim directly with the airline or use a specialized service to handle it for you.

4. Escalate If Needed – If the airline refuses to compensate you, escalate your claim to the national enforcement body or seek legal assistance.

Avoiding Flight Overbooking Issues in the Future

While you can’t prevent airlines from overbooking, here are some tips to reduce your risk:

• Check-In Early – Passengers who check in last are more likely to be denied boarding.

• Join the Airline’s Loyalty Program – Frequent flyers and premium members are given priority.

• Book Direct Flights – Overbooking is more common on connecting flights.

• Travel Light – Passengers with checked baggage are often less likely to be bumped.

Final Thoughts

If your flight from Kraków was overbooked, don’t accept a voucher—claim the money you’re legally entitled to! You could receive up to €600, even if the airline offers you an alternative flight. If necessary, check alternative departures from Katowice Airport to minimize delays.

Get Your Compensation Now!

Don’t let airlines take advantage of overbooking. Claim what’s rightfully yours today and turn your frustration into compensation!