This article will focus on Vueling vouchers and the process of converting them into cash.
It is important to note that vouchers do not serve as a substitute for flight compensation but are frequently offered by airlines as a form of compensation for flight disruptions. The article will delve into the specifics of vouchers, the reasons behind their issuance, and your entitlements as a passenger. However, it is crucial to bear in mind that accepting vouchers is generally not obligatory, and flight compensation cannot be substituted with vouchers.
1. Vueling Vouchers
Vouchers are a type of payment provided by airlines that can be used for purchasing tickets.
Vouchers are commonly given to passengers as compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or other difficulties encountered during their travel. While these vouchers can seem to be a convenient and flexible option for passengers, they may also have limitations and restrictions that limit their value. It is important to understand these limitations.
If your Vueling flight has been delayed or cancelled, you may too be presented with a Vueling voucher (also called “Flight credit”) as a form of compensation. Nevertheless, it is important to note that accepting these vouchers is not obligatory. The choice to accept a voucher or pursue alternative forms of compensation is ultimately up to you.
You have the right to request monetary compensation or refund.
This is your right, according to the EC Regulation 261/2004. This regulation is a European Union law that establishes the rights of air passengers in the event of flight disruptions such as cancellations, delays, and denied boarding. The regulation sets out clear guidelines for compensation and assistance that airlines must provide to passengers in the event of a flight disruption caused by the airline, including flight cancellations. The regulation also states that compensations and refunds must be paid in cash or by bank transfer, not in vouchers.
2. Vueling Voucher (Refund/Compensation)
What has happened to your flight?
Why you have been given a voucher?
2.1 Your Flight Was Cancelled
If you have received a Vueling voucher as a refund or flight compensation, it indicates that your flight has been cancelled. In such circumstances, the airline is obligated to provide you with a choice between a full refund for your ticket or an alternative flight to your final destination. The alternative flight can be arranged either with Vueling or another airline, and it should always be provided at no additional cost to you.
In certain cases, you may also be eligible for compensation due to the cancellation of your flight. To learn more about this, please refer to our guide on Vueling flight cancellation compensation.
It’s important to note that any refund or compensation owed to you will be directly credited to your bank account.
Remember, you are under no obligation to accept Vueling vouchers.
2.2 Your Flight Was Delayed
When it comes to flight delays, there are two possible scenarios: the delay is the airline’s fault or it is not. If the delay is attributable to the airline’s fault, you may be eligible for flight delay compensation. It is crucial to determine your eligibility and ensure that you receive the full amount of compensation owed to you. Don’t settle for less than what you are entitled to.
The European Union has established regulations outlining the procedures and compensation amounts for flight delays, which typically range from 250 to 600 euros. While Vueling may offer a voucher instead of cash compensation, it is important to note that accepting the voucher is not mandatory. If you decide to accept a voucher, ensure that its value meets the legal requirements.
If your flight delay was not caused by Vueling, the airline is not obligated to provide compensation as they are not at fault. It’s worth noting that Vueling vouchers are rarely issued for delays, and they cannot be exchanged for cash.
2.3 You Were Denied Boarding
If you experience denied boarding due to overbooking, you have certain rights. The airline is required to provide you with an alternative flight or a refund to your bank account. Additionally, you may be eligible for compensation for being involuntarily denied boarding.
Similar to delays and cancellations, if you qualify for compensation, you are not obligated to accept a non-refundable voucher. You have the option to have the compensation directly transferred to your bank account.
In the event that you voluntarily give up your seat, the airline may offer you various incentives such as cash, miles, points, or Vueling vouchers. However, it is crucial to carefully review the terms and conditions of any offer presented to you. This includes checking whether the offer is refundable or non-refundable, its validity period, and any usage limitations that may apply.
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.
2.4 Other Situations
Be attentive to the offers presented to you.
Take the time to assess any offers you receive. If you have concerns or uncertainties, conduct your own research to ensure fair treatment. Our website offers valuable information regarding circumstances in which you may be eligible for compensation or a refund.
Keep in mind that you are entitled to full reimbursement or compensation from Vueling in many cases, even if they propose a voucher as an alternative.
Here is a summary of what you can expect in different situations:
| Situation | EU flight compensation | Refund |
|---|---|---|
| Flight delayed for 3+ hours | If it’s due to the fault of Vueling, you are entitled to flight delay compensation | No |
| Flight delayed less than 3 hours | No | No |
| Flight cancelled less than 2 weeks before the flight | If it’s due to the fault of Vueling, you are entitled to flight cancellation compensation | You can choose between a refund and a new flight |
| Flight cancelled more than 2 weeks before the flight | No | You can choose between a refund and a new flight |
| You are involuntarily denied boarding due to overbooking | You can get denied boarding compensation | You can choose between a refund and a new flight |
| You have given up your seat (voluntary denied boarding) | No | As per agreement with Vueling |
If you are entitled to Vueling compensation or refund, you don’t have to accept any vouchers, especially non-refundable ones.
3. How to Request a Refund?
To get a refund for a Vueling cancelled flight, contact their customer services centre.
The airline may require you to fill out a refund request form or provide documentation of the cancellation and its impact. Follow the airline’s instructions carefully and provide all necessary information to support your request.
Make sure you are aware of your passenger rights under EC Regulation 261/2004, which may entitle you to compensation in addition to a refund. If you believe you are entitled to compensation, be sure to mention this when requesting a refund.
3.1 Demand a Vueling Refund (or Compensation), Not Voucher
To ensure that you receive the appropriate compensation, it is crucial to request a refund or compensation from Vueling instead of settling for a voucher. According to the law, you have the right to refuse vouchers and insist on a full refund via bank transfer if regulations allow. Please refer to the aforementioned table for a comprehensive understanding of all potential scenarios.
If you have already accepted a voucher but believe that you are entitled to cash compensation, you can attempt to exchange it. However, the likelihood of obtaining a complete cash refund depends on your specific circumstances. If you were not given a choice between a voucher and cash, or if you did not receive a satisfactory explanation, it is worthwhile to pursue receiving the monetary compensation.
What is your experience with Vueling vouchers? Have you ever been given one? Was it a refundable Vueling voucher or you could use it only for Vueling flights?
Read more:
- Your Vueling Compensation Claim Is Rejected. What’s Next?
- Your Vueling Refund Is Taking Forever? Here’s Your Plan of Action
Featured photo by Nataliya Vaitkevich from Pexels