What Compensation Am I Due for a Downgraded Flight?

Question from Yup, What Compensation Am I Due for a Downgraded Flight?

Answer from AI:

When your flight is cancelled and you are rebooked on a different flight, especially if you are downgraded from your original class of service, you may be entitled to compensation and other rights under certain regulations. In the UK, the relevant laws and regulations that apply to your situation include the EU Regulation 261/2004, which remains applicable to flights departing from the UK to an EU country operated by any airline, and flights departing from an EU country to the UK operated by a UK or EU airline.

Understanding Your Rights Under EU Regulation 261/2004

Under EU Regulation 261/2004, passengers are entitled to certain rights in the event of cancellations, long delays, and in instances where they are denied boarding or downgraded. Here’s what you should know:

• Cancellation Compensation: If your flight is cancelled, you may be entitled to compensation unless you were informed of the cancellation at least 14 days before the scheduled departure date.
• Downgrade Compensation: If you are downgraded, the regulation provides for a refund of a percentage of the cost of your ticket, depending on the flight distance:
  • 30% for all flights of 1,500 kilometers or less,
  • 50% for all intra-Community flights of more than 1,500 kilometers, except flights between the European territory of the Member States and the French overseas departments, and for all other flights between 1,500 and 3,500 kilometers,
  • 75% for all flights not falling under (a) or (b), including flights between the European territory of the Member States and the French overseas departments.
• Right to Assistance: You also have the right to assistance, which includes meals and refreshments in proportion to the waiting time, two free telephone calls, emails or faxes, and, if necessary, hotel accommodation and transport between the airport and the place of accommodation.

Steps to Claim Compensation

1. Contact the airline immediately to understand the specifics of your rebooking and to express your concern about the downgrade.
2. Keep all travel documents, including your original booking confirmation and any correspondence with the airline.
3. Request written confirmation of the downgrade and the reason for the cancellation from the airline.
4. File a claim for compensation directly with the airline, providing all necessary documentation.
5. If the airline does not respond or you are unsatisfied with their response, you can escalate the complaint to the national enforcement body or seek alternative dispute resolution.

When to Seek Legal Advice

If you are unsure about your rights, the amount of compensation due, or if the airline refuses to compensate you, it may be necessary to seek legal advice. A legal professional can provide personalized advice based on the specifics of your case.

For more information on your rights and how to claim compensation, you can visit the UK Civil Aviation Authority’s website or the Your Europe – Air Passenger Rights page.

Remember, while the above information provides a general guideline, individual circumstances can vary, and the application of laws may change over time. Always consider consulting with a legal professional for advice tailored to your specific situation.