Flight Overbooking in Piešťany – Your Rights and How to Get Compensation

Understanding Flight Overbooking in Piešťany

Piešťany, a charming spa town in Slovakia, is known for its thermal springs and health tourism. While it is a popular destination, its airport—Piešťany Airport (PZY)—is relatively small, handling charter and seasonal flights. However, flight overbooking can still occur, leaving passengers stranded and frustrated.

Airlines often sell more tickets than available seats, assuming that some passengers won’t show up. When more travelers than expected check in, some may be denied boarding due to overbooking. If this happens to you at Piešťany Airport, you may be entitled to compensation of up to €600 under EU Regulation EC 261/2004.

Why Do Airlines Overbook Flights?

Overbooking is a common airline practice designed to maximize profits. Airlines analyze past flight data and estimate how many passengers are likely to miss their flight. However, these calculations aren't always accurate, and when too many people show up, some are left without a seat.

Your Rights Under EC 261/2004 for Overbooking

If you are denied boarding due to overbooking in Piešťany, you are legally entitled to certain rights and compensation under EU law:

• Immediate alternative flight to your destination or a full refund.

• Monetary compensation based on flight distance:

  • €250 for flights up to 1,500 km.

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

  • €600 for flights over 3,500 km (if departing from the EU).

• Free meals, refreshments, and hotel accommodation if your rebooked flight requires a long wait.

What to Do If Your Flight from Piešťany Is Overbooked

1. Do not accept vouchers unless you are sure you don’t want cash compensation.

2. Request an official written explanation from the airline.

3. Ask for alternative travel options – consider flights from Bratislava Airport (BTS), just 80 km away. Some airlines may have flights departing from there, and you can take a bus or taxi to reach it quickly.

4. Keep all your travel documents and receipts for expenses.

5. File a compensation claim with Trouble Flight and get up to €600.

Alternative Departure Options – What If You Can’t Fly from Piešťany?

Since Piešťany Airport has a limited number of flights, checking Bratislava Airport (BTS) might be a smart move. Bratislava is Slovakia’s main international airport, offering more connections and greater flexibility if you need to rebook a flight.

How to Get from Piešťany to Bratislava Airport:

• By Car: Approx. 50 minutes via the D1 highway.

• By Train: Frequent trains to Bratislava Hlavná Stanica, then a short taxi or bus ride to the airport.

• By Bus: Direct connections to Bratislava’s city center, then local transport to the airport.

Considering these alternatives may help you reach your destination faster, instead of waiting for an airline’s rebooking.

How Long Does It Take to Get Compensation?

If you’ve been denied boarding due to overbooking at Piešťany Airport, you can submit a claim immediately. The process can take a few weeks to several months, depending on the airline’s response. However, Trouble Flight handles everything for you, increasing your chances of a fast payout.

Final Tips to Avoid Flight Overbooking Issues

• Check in early – passengers who check in last are most at risk of being denied boarding.

• Join an airline loyalty program – frequent flyers are often prioritized when flights are overbooked.

• Know your rights – airlines may not always inform you of your entitlement to compensation.

Get Your Compensation Today

If your flight from Piešťany Airport was overbooked, don’t let the airline get away with it. Claim up to €600 now with Trouble Flight – it’s fast, easy, and risk-free!