Maribor, Slovenia’s charming second-largest city, is a gateway to the country’s scenic wine regions and historic architecture. While the city isn’t served by a major international airport, travelers may still encounter overbooking issues when flying via nearby airports or connecting flights. Overbooking is a common airline practice where more tickets are sold than available seats, leading to passengers being denied boarding. If this happens to you, know your rights and how to get compensation.
Airlines overbook flights to maximize profits, anticipating that some passengers may not show up. However, when everyone does arrive, they must deny boarding to some passengers. This is not just an inconvenience—it can disrupt your plans entirely. If you are flying from Maribor Airport (MBX) or another nearby airport and are denied boarding due to overbooking, you are protected under EU Regulation EC 261/2004.
If you are denied boarding due to an overbooked flight in Maribor, follow these steps:
Do Not Voluntarily Give Up Your Seat – Unless the airline offers compensation you are satisfied with.
Request a Written Explanation – Ask the airline to provide a written confirmation stating that you were denied boarding due to overbooking.
Check Compensation Eligibility – If your flight departs from an EU airport or lands in the EU with an EU carrier, you may be entitled to compensation of up to €600.
Ask for Re-Routing Options – Check if the airline can book you on another flight. Consider alternative airports like Graz Airport (GRZ) in Austria, just an hour’s drive from Maribor.
Keep All Documents – Boarding passes, tickets, and receipts for any additional expenses should be saved for your claim.
Under EU regulations, passengers denied boarding due to overbooking are entitled to financial compensation based on the distance of the 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 (when departing from the EU)
In addition to monetary compensation, the airline must offer you:
A replacement flight to your destination.
Free meals and refreshments while waiting.
Hotel accommodation if the new flight is on the next day.
Transport to and from the airport if necessary.
If your flight is overbooked and you need to reach your destination urgently, consider these options:
Graz Airport (GRZ), Austria – Located about 60 km from Maribor, this airport offers more flight options with international airlines.
Zagreb Airport (ZAG), Croatia – Just two hours away, it serves a wider range of destinations.
Ljubljana Airport (LJU), Slovenia – The country’s main international airport, approximately 130 km from Maribor.
To Graz Airport: Drive or take a bus to Graz Hauptbahnhof, then a direct train to the airport.
To Zagreb Airport: Take a bus from Maribor to Zagreb’s main bus station, then a taxi to the airport.
To Ljubljana Airport: Train or bus to Ljubljana, followed by a shuttle to the airport.
Claiming compensation for an overbooked flight can be simple if you follow these steps:
Gather Your Evidence – Keep your boarding pass, denial of boarding confirmation, and any receipts for extra expenses.
File a Claim with the Airline – Many airlines have online forms where you can submit your request.
Use a Compensation Service – If the airline ignores your claim or refuses to pay, Trouble Flight can help you claim what you are owed with no upfront cost.
Many passengers are unaware of their rights when it comes to overbooking. Under EU law, if you are denied boarding involuntarily, you are entitled to compensation. The airline must also provide care, such as food, drinks, and hotel accommodation if needed. Don’t let airlines take advantage—claim your compensation today!
While you can’t prevent an airline from overbooking, you can take steps to minimize the risk of being denied boarding:
Check-In Early – The last passengers to check in are more likely to be bumped.
Join a Frequent Flyer Program – Loyalty program members are usually prioritized.
Book Direct Flights – Overbookings often happen on connecting flights.
Avoid Peak Travel Times – Flights are more likely to be full during holidays and weekends.
If you were denied boarding due to flight overbooking in Maribor, you could be entitled to up to €600 in compensation. Don’t let airlines take advantage—claim what is rightfully yours today. If you need assistance, Trouble Flight is here to help. File your claim now and get the compensation you deserve!