Norwegian Air's Overbooking: What to Do If You're Bumped

Flying can be stressful, especially when you’re unexpectedly bumped from a flight due to overbooking. This is a common occurrence with airlines, including Norwegian Air. Understanding your rights and knowing how to handle such situations can make a significant difference. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about dealing with overbooking and being bumped from a Norwegian Air flight.

Understanding Overbooking

Airlines, including Norwegian Air, often overbook flights to compensate for no-shows. This practice ensures that flights are as full as possible, maximizing revenue. However, this can lead to situations where more passengers arrive than there are available seats. When this happens, airlines must deny boarding to some passengers, a process known as being bumped.

Your Rights as a Passenger

When you are bumped from a flight, it’s essential to know your rights. In the European Union, including flights operated by Norwegian Air, passenger rights are protected under EC Regulation 261/2004. Here are the key points you should be aware of:

• Right to Compensation: Depending on the flight distance and the delay caused by being bumped, you may be entitled to compensation ranging from €250 to €600.
• Right to Assistance: Norwegian Air must provide meals, refreshments, and accommodation (if necessary), along with transport between the airport and the accommodation.
• Right to Re-routing or Refund: You can choose between being rerouted on the next available flight or receiving a refund for the part of the journey not completed.

Steps to Take If You Are Bumped

Here’s a step-by-step guide to handling the situation if you are bumped from your flight:

1. Stay Calm and Collected

Being bumped can be frustrating, but staying calm will help you handle the situation more effectively. Approach the airline staff politely and ask for assistance.

2. Confirm Your Compensation

Immediately inquire about the compensation you are entitled to under EC Regulation 261/2004. Make sure you receive written confirmation of your rights and the compensation details.

3. Request Assistance

Ensure that Norwegian Air provides the necessary assistance, including meals, refreshments, and accommodation if needed. Keep all receipts for any additional expenses incurred as a result of being bumped.

4. Consider Re-routing Options

If you choose to be rerouted, ask for details about the next available flights. Norwegian Air should make efforts to book you on the soonest possible alternative flight.

Handling Long Delays

In some cases, being bumped can result in long delays. Here’s how to manage such situations:

• Stay Informed: Keep checking for updates from the airline regarding your new flight schedule.
• Use Airport Facilities: Take advantage of the amenities offered at the airport, including lounges if you have access, to make your wait more comfortable.
• Contact Travel Insurance: If you have travel insurance, notify them about the delay. Some policies provide additional compensation for long delays.

Preparing for Future Flights

While overbooking is beyond your control, there are steps you can take to minimize the chances of being bumped:

1. Check-In Early

Passengers who check-in late are more likely to be bumped. Arriving early and checking in as soon as possible can reduce this risk.

2. Choose Your Seat in Advance

Whenever possible, select your seat in advance. Passengers without assigned seats are often among the first to be bumped.

3. Join Frequent Flyer Programs

Frequent flyer members are less likely to be bumped. Consider joining Norwegian Air’s loyalty program if you travel frequently with them.

Additional Resources

For more information on your rights and handling flight disruptions, visit the official EU passenger rights page. Stay informed to ensure you’re always prepared.

https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/travel/passenger-rights/air/index_en.htm

Conclusion

Being bumped from a flight due to overbooking can be inconvenient, but knowing your rights and the appropriate steps to take can ease the process. Norwegian Air, like all airlines, has obligations to ensure that affected passengers are compensated and assisted appropriately. Stay informed, stay calm, and ensure that you receive the support and compensation you are entitled to.