Flight Overbooking at Linate – What to Do & How to Get Compensation

Flight Overbooking at Linate: Your Rights and Compensation

Flying from Milan Linate Airport (LIN) and facing an overbooked flight? You’re not alone. Overbooking is a common airline practice where more tickets are sold than available seats. While this helps airlines maximize their revenue, it often leaves passengers stranded and frustrated.

The good news? Under EU Regulation 261/2004, you have the right to compensation of up to €600 per passenger, alternative flights, and additional assistance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through your rights, what to do if you are denied boarding, and how to claim your compensation hassle-free.

Why Do Airlines Overbook Flights at Linate?

Linate Airport, one of Milan’s major hubs, primarily serves domestic and short-haul European flights. Given its strategic business location, it sees high passenger demand, especially on routes to Rome, London, and Paris.

To avoid empty seats due to no-shows, airlines overbook flights. When everyone shows up, some passengers are denied boarding. While frustrating, this situation entitles you to certain rights, and knowing them can make a huge difference.

What to Do If Your Flight Is Overbooked at Linate?

If you are denied boarding due to overbooking at Linate, stay calm and follow these steps:

1. Do NOT Accept the First Offer

Airlines often try to offer vouchers or alternative flights before mentioning your right to compensation. You are legally entitled to a cash payout, so don’t settle for less.

2. Ask for an Immediate Alternative Flight

Linate is well connected, and you may find an alternative flight:

• Malpensa Airport (MXP): If your airline offers another flight from Milan Malpensa, they must provide transport between airports.

• Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY): Some budget airlines operate from Bergamo, which is a one-hour transfer from Linate.

• Other Airlines at Linate: Check if another airline has seats on the same route. If available, the airline that overbooked must book you on the next available flight at no extra cost.

3. Request Compensation Before Leaving the Airport

According to EU261, overbooked passengers can claim:

• €250 for flights under 1,500 km

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

• €600 for flights over 3,500 km

Even if you accept an alternative flight, you can still claim compensation.

4. Keep Receipts for Additional Expenses

If you are stuck at Linate Airport overnight, the airline must provide:

• Hotel accommodation

• Transport to/from the hotel

• Food & refreshments

Keep all receipts in case they refuse to pay upfront—you can claim reimbursement later.

How to Get from Linate to Other Airports if You Need an Alternative Flight

If your airline offers a rerouted flight from another airport, here’s how to get there:

• Linate to Malpensa (MXP):

  • Direct shuttle buses take around 50 minutes (€10-€15).

  • Taxi: Approx. €100, depending on traffic.

• Linate to Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY):

  • Buses connect Linate to Milan Centrale, where you can catch another shuttle to Bergamo (€12-€15 total).

  • Taxi: Around €120.

Airlines should cover transfer costs if they book you on a flight from a different airport.

Common Routes Affected by Overbooking at Linate

The most overbooked routes from Linate Airport include:

• Milan (LIN) – Rome (FCO): High-demand business route.

• Milan (LIN) – London (LHR, LGW): Frequent issues with British Airways, ITA Airways.

• Milan (LIN) – Paris (CDG, ORY): Popular among both business and leisure travelers.

• Milan (LIN) – Frankfurt (FRA): Lufthansa often overbooks peak-hour flights.

If your route is overbooked, check flights departing from Malpensa or Bergamo for a quicker alternative.

How to Claim Compensation for an Overbooked Flight from Linate

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

You qualify for compensation if:
✅ You were denied boarding involuntarily.
✅ Your flight originated from an EU airport (Linate is covered).
✅ You had a confirmed reservation and arrived on time for check-in.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

🛂 Boarding pass & e-ticket (even if you didn’t board).
📄 Written confirmation from the airline stating the reason for denied boarding.
💳 Receipts for expenses (meals, transport, hotel, etc.).

Step 3: File Your Claim

You can submit your claim:

• Directly with the airline (response may take weeks).

• Through Trouble Flight – We handle everything and ensure you receive your full compensation.

FAQs About Flight Overbooking at Linate

Can I Get Compensation If I Voluntarily Gave Up My Seat?

No, if you accept a voucher or voluntarily give up your seat, you waive your right to compensation.

How Long Does It Take to Receive Compensation?

Airlines must respond within 2 months, but they often delay payments. Using Trouble Flight speeds up the process.

What If the Airline Refuses to Pay?

If the airline denies your claim, you can escalate the case to the Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC) or take legal action. We can help you through this process.

Don’t Let Overbooking Ruin Your Trip – Claim Up to €600 Now!

An overbooked flight at Linate doesn’t mean you have to accept a bad deal. You have rights, and airlines must compensate you if you are denied boarding.

At Trouble Flight, we handle the entire compensation process—no upfront fees, no hassle. Submit your claim today and get the money you deserve!