Passengers who find themselves faced with overbooking by Aeromexico have specific rights decreed by the Department of Transportation (DOT).
Search for volunteers and compensation
In accordance with guidelines issued by the DOT, Aeromexico must first solicit volunteers willing to give up their seats in exchange for compensation. In the event of an absence of volunteers, the selection of passengers to leave the plane is done randomly. However, those forced to disembark are entitled to compensation.
Airport rights
Passengers facing overbooking are entitled to various amenities, including free meals, a hotel room if necessary, transfers between the hotel and the airport, as well as free phone calls to stay in touch with their relatives.
Replacement flight delayed? Compensation planned for victims
In the event of a cumulative delay of between 1 and 2 hours for a replacement flight, passengers are entitled to compensation equivalent to 200% of the ticket price, with a minimum amount of $775.
If the delay exceeds two hours, compensation increases to 400% of the ticket price, or a minimum of $1,550. These rights are applicable provided that the passenger has a confirmed reservation.
Cancellation after overbooking
If, after five hours of waiting at the airport, no means of replacement have been provided, passengers have the option of canceling their reservation and obtaining a full refund of the ticket, accompanied by financial compensation.
Stopover situation
In the event that an overbooked passenger finds himself stranded in the middle of the journey, for example during a stopover, Aeromexico is required to take care of him by transporting him to his place of departure.
What if overbooking took place in Europe?
Was your flight operated by Aeromexico from a European airport marked by an overbooking? Undoubtedly, this situation causes inconvenience for passengers, and thus underlines the crucial importance of understanding their rights and the laws which govern them, in particular European Regulation 261/2004CE, aimed at protecting the rights of air travelers within of the European Union.
Regulation 261/2004EC, also known as the European Passenger Rights Regulation, was introduced with the aim of ensuring fair treatment and adequate compensation for passengers facing problems such as delays, cancellations or denied boarding due to overbooking. This regulation applies to all flights departing from an EU member state, regardless of the nationality of the airline.
How much to claim from Aeromexico?
Under Law 261/2004CE, the amount of compensation is calculated according to the distance of the flight:
- For short-haul flights (less than 1,500 kilometers), compensation is set at 250 euros
- For medium-haul flights (between 1,500 and 3,500 kilometers) and long-haul flights (more than 3,500 kilometers), compensation amounts to 400 and 600 euros respectively
It is essential that affected passengers are aware of their rights and assert them by filing a complaint with the airline. It is advisable to keep all relevant documents, such as boarding passes and receipts for expenses incurred during the incident, as evidence.