Flight Overbooking at Terceira Airport – What to Do & How to Get Compensated

Discovering Terceira Airport and Its Importance

Terceira Airport (TER), also known as Lajes Airport, is a crucial gateway to the Azores, serving both military and commercial flights. Located on Terceira Island, this airport is a vital link between Portugal and the world. It handles a significant number of domestic and international flights, making it prone to occasional overbooking situations.

Overbooking is a common airline practice where more tickets are sold than available seats. While airlines do this to compensate for potential no-shows, it often leads to denied boarding for passengers. If you have faced this issue at Terceira Airport, you have rights and might be eligible for compensation under EU Regulation EC261/2004.

What to Do if Your Flight Is Overbooked at Terceira Airport?

Step 1: Do Not Accept a Voluntary Offer Too Quickly

Airlines might offer incentives like travel vouchers or meal tickets in exchange for giving up your seat. While this can be tempting, you may be entitled to monetary compensation of up to €600, which is often more valuable than the airline's first offer.

Step 2: Request a Written Explanation

Ask the airline for a written statement confirming that you were denied boarding due to overbooking. This document can be crucial when filing a compensation claim.

Step 3: Keep Your Receipts

If overbooking causes additional expenses such as hotel stays, meals, or transportation, keep all receipts. Airlines are required to cover these costs under passenger rights regulations.

Step 4: Look for Alternative Flights

If you need to reach your destination urgently, check for alternative flights from Terceira Airport or nearby airports like João Paulo II Airport (Ponta Delgada). If another airline operates a flight from a different island, you may want to explore ferry or regional flight options.

Your Rights Under EU Regulation EC261/2004

As Terceira Airport is in Portugal, all flights departing from here fall under EU Regulation EC261/2004, which protects passengers in cases of overbooking.

Compensation Amounts You Can Claim

The compensation varies based on flight distance:

• €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 Can Airlines Refuse Compensation?

You may not be eligible for compensation if:

• You voluntarily gave up your seat and accepted another form of compensation.

• The airline arranged an alternative flight that arrives at a similar time to your original schedule.

How to Claim Compensation for an Overbooked Flight?

Option 1: Claim Directly with the Airline

Most airlines have an online form for compensation claims. You will need:

• Your flight ticket or boarding pass

• Proof that you were denied boarding (ask the airline for confirmation)

• Any receipts for expenses caused by the overbooking

Option 2: Use a Compensation Service

If you don’t want the hassle of dealing with airlines, a compensation service like Trouble Flight can handle the process for you. We assess your case for free and only charge a fee if your claim is successful.

Alternative Travel Options from Terceira

If overbooking disrupts your plans, consider flights from João Paulo II Airport (Ponta Delgada). The Azores have an efficient inter-island travel system, including regional airlines like SATA Air Açores and ferry services.

Getting from Terceira to Ponta Delgada

• By Flight: SATA Air Açores operates frequent flights between Terceira and Ponta Delgada, taking about 40 minutes.

• By Ferry: If you prefer a scenic route, ferries between Terceira and São Miguel operate seasonally.

Final Thoughts – Don’t Let Overbooking Ruin Your Trip!

Flight overbooking is frustrating, but knowing your rights can turn the situation in your favor. If you were denied boarding at Terceira Airport, don’t settle for less—claim up to €600 in compensation today. Trouble Flight can help you get what you deserve with a hassle-free process.

Check if you're eligible now and start your claim!