Claiming Flight Bump Compensation in Colombia: Your Rights and Steps

In Colombia, compensation for involuntary denied boarding--often due to overbooking--falls under Reglamento Aeronáutico Colombiano (RAC) 3, Numeral 3.10, administered by Aerocivil. This regulation covers airline-attributable issues like denied boarding, requiring assistance such as rebooking or refunds. Airlines may offer alternatives, but passengers should document the incident before agreeing.

Overbooking remains legal, generally limited to account for no-shows. Rights apply to flights departing from Colombia, whether domestic or international, operated under Colombian aviation rules. Start by contacting airline customer service at the airport, then escalate to Aerocivil or Superintendencia de Industria y Comercio (SIC) if needed. Arrive on time to preserve claims.

The Rule Controlling Denied Boarding Compensation

RAC 3, Numeral 3.10 establishes passenger rights for denied boarding due to airline reasons, including overbooking. Aerocivil oversees enforcement through its aviation service guidelines, which reference this numeral for assistance in delays and boarding denials. Aerocivil's passenger information page outlines related support.

Airline-specific policies, which may propose rebooking or vouchers first, differ from RAC 3.

What Denied Boarding Compensation Does Not Cover

Colombian rules under RAC 3 do not match EU Regulation 261/2004's fixed euro amounts or US Department of Transportation tarmac and bump rules. Credit card chargebacks or travel insurance follow separate processes unrelated to aviation regulations. General consumer retraction rules, like Resolution 1375/2015, apply to ticket purchases but not denied boarding.

Overbooking is permitted, with limits around no-show expectations. Voluntary agreements, such as accepting a later flight, may waive further claims.

Steps to Claim Your Compensation

Contact airline staff immediately at the airport to document the denial and request assistance under RAC 3. Provide your ticket details and note any offers.

If unresolved, file a formal claim with the airline's customer service. Escalate to Aerocivil for aviation-specific complaints or SIC for broader rights issues. Retain evidence like boarding denial notices, tickets, and communications.

Key Limits and Exceptions

Rights under RAC 3 require passengers to present on time; late arrivals forfeit claims. Airlines can negotiate settlements. Overbooking norms allow limited excess sales. Voluntary rebooking or check-in errors limit eligibility.

No fixed timelines appear in primary guidance for claims, though administrative processes aim for resolution within months.

FAQ

What is the compensation amount for a flight bump in Colombia?

RAC 3, Numeral 3.10 covers airline-attributable denials.

Does RAC 3 apply to all airlines flying from Colombia?

It governs flights departing Colombia under Aerocivil jurisdiction, including Colombian carriers like Avianca or LATAM Colombia.

Can I get compensation if I accept a voluntary rebooking?

Accepting voluntary options may waive further RAC 3 entitlements.

Where do I file a denied boarding complaint after contacting the airline?

Submit to Aerocivil or SIC, with documentation of the incident.

Is overbooking illegal in Colombia?

No, it is allowed within limits to cover no-shows.

How does Colombian bump compensation differ from EU rules?

Colombian rules under RAC 3 differ from EU 261/2004's fixed euro amounts.

Document incidents thoroughly and contact Aerocivil for current guidance.