Flight Overbooking in Sanremo – Know Your Rights and Get Compensated

Sanremo, a beautiful coastal town in Italy, is known for its stunning Riviera views, world-famous music festival, and vibrant tourism. But what happens when your travel plans are disrupted due to flight overbooking? Overbooking is a common airline practice where more tickets are sold than available seats, leading to some passengers being denied boarding. If you find yourself stranded at Sanremo Airport or any nearby airport due to overbooking, you may have rights under EU Regulation EC 261/2004 to claim compensation.

Why Do Airlines Overbook Flights?

Overbooking happens because airlines predict a certain percentage of passengers will not show up for their flights. To maximize profits, they sell more tickets than available seats, banking on some cancellations or no-shows. While this strategy often works in their favor, it can leave unlucky passengers stuck at the airport with no flight to board.

Your Rights Under EU 261 for Overbooking in Sanremo

If you are denied boarding due to overbooking and you were not at fault (e.g., you arrived on time with valid documentation), you are protected under EU 261 regulations. Here’s what you can claim:

• Compensation: You could receive between €250 and €600, depending on the flight distance.

• Rebooking or Refund: Airlines must offer you an alternative flight to your destination or a full refund.

• Care Services: If you are delayed for several hours, the airline must provide food, refreshments, and accommodation if necessary.

How Much Compensation Can You Get?

The amount of compensation you’re entitled to depends on the distance of your flight:

• Up to 1,500 km: €250

• Between 1,500 km and 3,500 km: €400

• Over 3,500 km: €600

This applies if you were denied boarding against your will and the airline did not offer an alternative flight that arrives within a reasonable time frame.

What to Do If Your Flight Is Overbooked in Sanremo

1. Do not volunteer to give up your seat – If the airline asks for volunteers and you accept compensation in the form of vouchers, you may waive your right to the full cash compensation under EU 261.

2. Request a written confirmation – Ask the airline for a written statement explaining that you were denied boarding due to overbooking.

3. Collect evidence – Take photos of your boarding pass, luggage tags, and any airline communication.

4. Keep receipts – If the airline fails to provide meals or accommodation, keep receipts to claim reimbursement.

5. Claim your compensation – You can file a claim directly with the airline or use a flight compensation service like Trouble Flight to handle the process for you.

Alternative Travel Options from Sanremo

Sanremo does not have its own major airport. The nearest airports are:

• Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE) – Approximately 55 km away, offering international flights with more options for rebooking.

• Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA) – About 140 km away, another alternative if you need a different airline option.

If your flight from Sanremo (or its nearest airports) is overbooked and the next available flight is hours or days away, consider checking flights from Nice or Genoa. You can take a direct train or bus to these airports within 1-2 hours.

Can You Get Compensation for a Connecting Flight Missed Due to Overbooking?

Yes! If your first flight was overbooked and caused you to miss a connecting flight, you may still be eligible for compensation under EU 261 if both flights were part of the same booking. This applies even if your connecting flight was operated by a different airline.

What If the Airline Offers Travel Vouchers Instead of Cash?

You do not have to accept vouchers! Airlines may try to offer travel credits instead of the cash compensation you’re entitled to. You have the right to refuse and insist on a direct bank transfer instead.

How to Claim Your Compensation Hassle-Free

Filing a claim for flight overbooking can be time-consuming, and airlines often reject initial claims. At Trouble Flight, we handle everything for you. With our expertise, we can get you the compensation you deserve without the stress – and you don’t pay unless we win.

Don't let flight overbooking ruin your plans – claim up to €600 today!