Article 10: downgrading

Put in a lower class than you paid for? You are owed part of your fare back — fast.

Legal referenceEU 261, Art. 10; Mennens C-255/15

If the airline seats you in a lower class than the one you booked, Art. 10 entitles you to reimbursement of part of the ticket price.

30% of the price of the flight for flights up to 1,500 km
50% for most flights between 1,500 and 3,500 km (and intra-EU over 1,500 km)
75% for flights over 3,500 km between an EU and a non-EU airport

In Mennens the Court clarified that the percentage applies to the price of the specific leg you were downgraded on, taxes and charges excluded. It must be paid within seven days.

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Article 7: the compensation→

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