EU Flight Claims

When a flight is overbooked, gate agents become decision-makers in a high-pressure balancing act. Here’s what really influences who boards and who’s bumped.

Who gets bumped first?

Gate agents know the hierarchy.

• Late Arrivals and Last-Minute Check-ins: If you show up late, your chances of being bumped skyrocket.
• Non-loyalty Travellers: Loyalty program members — no matter their status — are generally protected from involuntary bumping.
• Solo Travellers: Singles may be bumped before families or those needing assistance.

Tip: Arrive early and check-in as soon as possible. If you have extenuating circumstances — disability, travelling with children —inform agents right away.

Voluntary vs. Involuntary denied boarding

Agents will ask for volunteers first, offering incentives. If you’re considering volunteering, negotiate confidently:

• Ask for written guarantees of new travel times
• Request extra perks (meal vouchers, lounge access, cash compensation)
• Ensure compensation is immediate (cash or electronic transfer on the spot)

Only if not enough volunteers step forward do agents select passengers for involuntary denied boarding—following strict guidelines.

How to protect yourself

Families with small children, disabled passengers, and frequent flyers with status are prioritized to board. If you don’t fit these criteria but still get selected:

• Insist on written confirmation explaining why you were bumped
• Demand to be informed of your rights under EU261, including immediate compensation AND the best possible rebooking
• Be polite but persistent—agents are allowed (and sometimes encouraged) to advocate for passengers who calmly make their case

Get your compensation right at the gate

EU law requires airlines to pay denied boarding compensation immediately, not weeks later. Ask for your due before leaving the airport.
If agents hesitate, document their response and use it to escalate with the airline customer support team or through a claims service.

Gate agent advice: Arrive early, be informed, negotiate perks if you’re bumped, and always ask for compensation on the spot. Advocacy and information are your best allies at the gate. If you get bumped, visit euflightclaims.com for free links to airline compensation claim forms.

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