Overview
Brussels Airlines’ missed flight policy outlines options for passengers who fail to board their scheduled flight due to reasons within or beyond their control. The policy is governed by fare rules, ticket type, and EU Regulation 261/2004 for applicable flights.
Key Policy Details
- No-Show Policy: If you miss your flight without notifying Brussels Airlines in advance, it is considered a "no-show." This may result in the cancellation of the entire itinerary, as tickets must be used in sequence. Non-refundable tickets typically have no value after a no-show unless canceled before departure per fare rules.
- Non-Refundable Tickets: For non-refundable tickets, no refunds are provided for missed flights. Rebooking may be possible, subject to availability, fare differences, and change fees, which vary by ticket type.
- Refundable Tickets: If you hold a refundable ticket, you may request a refund for the unused portion, subject to fare rules. Refunds must be requested through the Brussels Airlines website or customer service, with an administration fee of €40 for offline requests.
- 24-Hour Cancellation Policy: If you booked directly with Brussels Airlines, you can cancel or change your reservation without penalty within 24 hours of booking, provided the first flight has not departed. This applies to all fare types, but airline fees, optional charges, and travel insurance are non-refundable.
- Missed Connections Due to Delays: If you miss a connecting flight due to a delay or cancellation of a Brussels Airlines-operated flight within the same booking, the airline will rebook you on the next available flight at no additional cost. If the delay exceeds 3 hours at your final destination and is within the airline’s control, you may be eligible for compensation of up to €600 under EU Regulation 261/2004.
- Extraordinary Circumstances: No compensation is provided if the missed flight results from extraordinary circumstances (e.g., bad weather, air traffic control issues, or strikes not involving airline staff).
Steps to Take if You Miss Your Flight
- Contact Brussels Airlines customer service immediately via the website, Chat Assistant, or airport service desk to explore rebooking or refund options.
- Provide your booking reference and explain the reason for missing the flight to check eligibility for rebooking or refunds.
- Review your ticket’s fare rules to understand applicable fees or restrictions.
- Keep documentation (e.g., boarding passes, receipts) for any claims or expense reimbursements.
Note: Policies vary based on ticket type, fare rules, and booking channel (e.g., directly with Brussels Airlines or through a travel agency). For code-share flights, the operating carrier’s rules may apply. Always review fare conditions at booking and consider travel insurance for added protection.
Additional Information
If Brussels Airlines cancels or significantly delays your flight, you are entitled to care (e.g., meals, hotel accommodation for overnight delays) and, in some cases, compensation. For flights to/from the U.S., US DOT refund regulations may also apply. Always retain proof of expenses and your booking reference for claims.
