Flight Overbooking in Milan – What to Do & How to Get Compensation

Milan, Italy’s fashion and financial hub, welcomes millions of travelers every year through its two major airports: Malpensa (MXP) and Linate (LIN). While both airports serve as key gateways to Europe and beyond, flight overbooking remains a common issue, leaving passengers stranded and frustrated. If you’ve been denied boarding due to an overbooked flight in Milan, you have rights – and you might be entitled to compensation of up to €600.

Why Do Airlines Overbook Flights?

Airlines sell more tickets than there are seats available to compensate for expected no-shows. While this strategy maximizes airline profits, it often leaves passengers in difficult situations when more people show up than the plane can accommodate. If this happens to you in Milan, knowing what steps to take can make all the difference.

Immediate Steps to Take If Your Flight Is Overbooked

1. Do Not Voluntarily Give Up Your Seat (Unless the Offer Is Worth It)

Airlines often ask for volunteers to give up their seats in exchange for vouchers or rebooking. If you’re not in a hurry, you might negotiate a better offer, such as a business-class upgrade on your next flight, a hotel stay, or meal vouchers.

2. Request an Alternative Flight

If you are denied boarding, the airline must offer you an alternative flight at no extra cost. If you're flying from Milan, check if there are seats available from Linate Airport (LIN) or Malpensa Airport (MXP). Many flights, especially short-haul ones, operate from both airports, so switching departure locations might be an option. If a flight from another airport is available, ask the airline to arrange transport between the airports.

3. Get Written Confirmation

Always request a written statement from the airline confirming that you were denied boarding due to overbooking. This document is essential when filing a compensation claim.

4. Know Your Rights Under EU261

Passengers departing from Milan (or any EU airport) are protected under EU Regulation 261/2004, which states that if you are involuntarily denied boarding due to overbooking, you could be entitled to:

• €250 for flights up to 1,500 km

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

• €600 for flights over 3,500 km

Additionally, the airline must provide meals, refreshments, and accommodation if you have to wait for a new flight.

What If Your New Flight Leaves from a Different Airport?

Milan is served by two main airports: Malpensa and Linate. If you’re denied boarding at Malpensa, check for flights from Linate, which is much closer to the city center. Here’s how to transfer between airports:

• By Bus: The Malpensa Shuttle connects both airports in about 50 minutes.

• By Taxi: A direct taxi ride takes around 45 minutes and costs approximately €90.

• By Train: Although there's no direct train, you can take the Malpensa Express to Milano Centrale and then a taxi or bus to Linate.

Switching airports could mean catching an earlier flight with another airline, avoiding an extended delay.

How to Claim Compensation for Flight Overbooking in Milan

If you were denied boarding in Milan, claiming compensation is straightforward:

1. Gather Documents – Keep your boarding pass, booking confirmation, and the denial statement from the airline.

2. Submit a Claim to the Airline – Airlines are legally required to process claims, but they often delay or reject them unfairly.

3. Let Experts Handle It – If the airline refuses to pay, services like Trouble Flight can handle the claim for you, ensuring you get what you’re owed without the hassle.

Common Airline Excuses & How to Counter Them

“We Gave You an Alternative Flight, So No Compensation”

False. EU261 entitles you to compensation regardless of whether the airline offers a new flight.

“It Was Due to Extraordinary Circumstances”

Flight overbooking is never an extraordinary circumstance—it’s a deliberate airline policy. They must compensate you.

“You Didn’t Check In on Time”

If you arrived at the airport within the airline’s check-in deadline, this argument is invalid. Always keep evidence of your timely arrival.

Conclusion: Turn Flight Overbooking into a €600 Win

While flight overbooking in Milan is frustrating, it doesn’t have to mean financial loss. With EU261 on your side, you could turn your inconvenience into a €600 payout. Don’t let airlines keep what’s rightfully yours—file your claim today!