SAS flight downgrade compensation.
Do you qualify for it? What is the amount you can get? What guidelines apply?
Imagine this situation – you booked a first class ticket, but upon reaching the airport, you’re informed that you’ll have to travel in business or economy class. Or, picture this – you booked a business class ticket only to be later downgraded to the economy class. There are clear rules for such circumstances. And, indeed, you can seek compensation from SAS. This is applicable to all SAS flights to and from Europe.
The airline must provide compensation on the spot.
1. SAS Flight Downgrade Compensation
Can you get SAS flight downgrade compensation?
Passenger rights in air travel are regulated in the EU.
- If your flight is delayed, you may be entitled to flight delay compensation.
- If the flight is cancelled, you may be entitled to flight cancellation compensation.
- If you are denied boarding, denied boarding compensation is your right.
In case of a flight downgrade, you are eligible for flight downgrade compensation. The involuntary downgrade compensation you can receive from your airline ranges from 30 to 75% of the ticket price, based on the distance of your flight. This does not alter your SAS baggage allowance as the downgrade isn’t your fault.
This applies to all SAS flights to and from Europe.
For non-EU airlines, this only applies to flights departing from Europe.
This is all made possible due to Regulation (EC) No 261/2004.
By Europe and EU here on this page (and on this website in general) we mean all EU Member States, the United Kingdom (UK), Guadeloupe, French Guiana, Martinique, Reunion, Mayotte, Saint Martin (French Antilles), the Azores, Madeira, the Canary Islands, Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland.
2. How to Apply For Flight Downgrade Compensation?
Flight downgrade compensation must be paid immediately.
So, ideally, you shouldn’t have to take any action.
However, in case this doesn’t occur, be sure to get in touch with SAS and file a claim. Otherwise, if you remain silent, SAS will do the same – nothing. Be aware that this compensation should be transferred to your bank account. There’s no obligation for you to accept any discount coupons or SAS vouchers.
If there’s any trouble, refer to Regulation (EC) No 261/2004.
3. How Much Can You Claim for Flight Downgrade?
The EU regulates flight compensation amounts.
Here is how you can calculate your SAS flight downgrade compensation:
- 30%, if the distance of your flight is up to 1500 kilometres,
- 50%, if the distance of your flight is between 1500 – 3500 kilometres,
- 75%, if the distance of your flight is more than 3500 kilometres.
These percentages are based on the price you paid for your flight.
4. What About Complimentary Upgrades?
Suppose all the economy seats are filled, and you’re offered a spot in the business class. That’s fine, but remember that the airline can’t ask for any additional payment for this upgrade.
This is merely an involuntary SAS upgrade.
EU and Non-EU Airlines
When flying with non-European airlines, such as Qatar Airways or Turkish Airlines, EU regulations (namely, Regulation (EC) No 261/2004 and Regulation UK 261) apply only to their flights departing from European airports.
However, for flights departing from outside Europe, the rules don’t apply. In such cases, travelers must adhere to the laws of the country of departure and the policies of the airline, particularly regarding downgrading.
Remember, if you are flying with a European airline such as SAS, European regulations apply to all their flights – to, from and within Europe.
First Class vs Business Class
In the realm of air travel, First Class and Business Class offer varying levels of amenities and come with distinct cost differences.
Both classes provide notably better service than Economy class.
First Class
First Class epitomizes the pinnacle of comfort an airline can provide.
First class often offers lie-flat seats, exquisite meals, a wide array of beverages, and highly personalised service. Travelers in First Class often enjoy access to exclusive airport lounges and priority boarding.
Some airlines go further by providing private suites, emphasising luxury and privacy.
Business Class
Business Class, although an upgrade from Economy, doesn’t quite reach the opulence of First Class. The seats are spacious and more comfortable than those in Economy class but may not always convert into fully flat beds. The meals maintain a high standard, accompanied by a good selection of beverages.
Business Class passengers also enjoy access to airport lounges and priority boarding.
However, the level of privacy and personalised attention may not match that of First Class.
What is your experience with SAS downgrades? Have you ever experienced that? Have you ever been downgraded on a SAS flight from Business to Economy?