This article discusses what to do if you got bumped off of a flight you booked with British Airways. British Airways' compensation policy is described, as are the US Department of Transportation's rules concerning bumping compensation and the EU's rules. Instructions for making a compensation claim to British Airways are also given. Contact information for British Airways' customer service is given as well.
Getting bumped from a British Airways flight is not likely. However, if you were bumped from a British Airways flight, you should learn about compensation you could be owed and the steps you need to take to get it.
If You Have Been Bumped from a British Airways Flight
Go to a British Airways desk and talk to a representative. They will find you a different flight that can bring you to your destination on time, if possible.
British Airways' Policy
If you were delayed at your destination by 3 hours or more and the reason for your bumping was due to causes under the airline's control, you are entitled to compensation based on the distance traveled. This compensation is €250 for flights of 1,500 km or less, €400 for flights between 1,500 and 3,500 km, and €600 for flights of more than 3,500 km.
For US Flights
If your flight originated in the US or was inbound to it and were delayed 4 hours or more then you are owed 400% of your ticket price, but not more than $1,350. If you were less than 4 but more than 1 hour late you are owed 200% of your ticket price, but not more than $675. Delays of less than 1 hour do not qualify for compensation.
The compensation British Airways owes under this rule is given to make up for the inconvenience caused by the bumping. You still own the ticket and can use it if British Airways can find another flight for you or request a refund for it.
For EU Flights
According to EU law, of your flight departs from or originates in an EU airport, you are owed compensation. If your flight was 1,500 km or less and you were delayed less than 2 hours, you are owed €125. It goes up to €250 for delays of 2 hours or more. For flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km where you were delayed less than 3 hours, you are owed €200. If your flight was more than 3,500 km and you were delayed less than 4 hours, you are owed €300.
How to File for Compensation
If you booked through British Airways:
If you cannot fill out the online form for some reason, you can make your claim by sending a letter to:
British Airways Customer Relations
EU Compensation Claims
PO Box 1126
Uxbridge
UB8 9XS
United Kingdom
If you booked through a travel agent:
Contact the travel agent and make your request for compensation through them.
If you have any problems or questions, contact British Airways' customer support. They have a phone line, an online help desk, and Twitter support.
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