Overbooking in Italy: Know Your Rights and Claim Compensation

Understanding Overbooking in Italy

Italy, with its world-famous cities like Rome, Milan, and Venice, is a major travel hub for both tourists and business travelers. With its well-connected airports—Fiumicino (FCO), Malpensa (MXP), and Venice Marco Polo (VCE)—Italy attracts millions of passengers annually. But with high demand comes a common issue: overbooking.

Airlines overbook flights intentionally, selling more tickets than available seats, anticipating no-shows. However, when everyone arrives, some passengers are denied boarding. If this happened to you in Italy, don’t panic—European Regulation EC 261/2004 protects you.

Are You Eligible for Overbooking Compensation?

If your flight departs from or arrives in Italy with an EU airline and you were denied boarding due to overbooking, you are entitled to compensation. The amount depends on the flight distance:

• €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

In addition, you must be offered an alternative flight or a refund. If you were forced to wait for hours, airlines must also cover meals, accommodation (if necessary), and transportation to and from the airport.

What to Do If You're Denied Boarding in Italy

1. Stay calm and ask why. Confirm that overbooking is the reason for your denied boarding.

2. Request a written statement. Airlines must provide written proof of the overbooking situation.

3. Accept or refuse an alternative flight. If you need to reach your destination urgently, check alternative airports nearby. For instance:

   • If stuck in Milan Malpensa, check flights from Linate (LIN).

   • If in Rome Fiumicino, try Ciampino (CIA).

   • If in Venice, Verona’s Valerio Catullo Airport (VRN) could have other options.

4. Keep all receipts. If you need to book another flight, keep receipts for reimbursement.

5. Claim compensation. Many passengers don’t claim their rightful money—don’t be one of them!

Common Overbooking Situations in Italy

Overbooking in Rome Airports

Rome’s Fiumicino Airport (FCO), the busiest in Italy, frequently faces overbooking, especially on transatlantic flights. If overbooked, check flights from Ciampino Airport (CIA) or nearby Naples (NAP).

Overbooking in Milan

Milan’s airports—Malpensa (MXP) and Linate (LIN)—are business travel hotspots, making overbooking a frequent issue. If your flight is overbooked, check if another airline flies from Bergamo’s Orio al Serio (BGY).

Venice and Other Tourist Airports

Venice’s Marco Polo Airport (VCE) sees seasonal overbooking, particularly in summer. If stranded, look for flights from Treviso (TSF) or Verona (VRN).

Can the Airline Refuse to Compensate You?

Yes, but only in specific cases. If you voluntarily gave up your seat in exchange for perks (vouchers, upgrades, or miles), you may lose your right to compensation. However, if the airline forced you to give up your seat, you are entitled to financial compensation under EC 261.

How to Reach Alternative Airports in Italy

If your flight is overbooked and you need to switch airports, here’s how to get there fast:

• Milan Malpensa (MXP) to Linate (LIN): 45-minute shuttle bus.

• Rome Fiumicino (FCO) to Ciampino (CIA): 35-minute direct train and bus combo.

• Venice (VCE) to Treviso (TSF): 40-minute shuttle service.

Don't Let Airlines Keep Your Money

If you've been overbooked in Italy, airlines owe you compensation up to €600. Most travelers never claim it—don’t let your money go to waste. Act now and get what you’re entitled to!