Originally Posted by hannah120
Thanks for this.This is really helpful.
I have also looked into compensation for the 24 hour delay-which I think I am right in saying I am unlikely to get because it was a technical fault?
Re the downgrading,what if they said that was the only type of seat available on that flight at that time?
also i booked through an agent,major travel,is this relevant.I understand the regulations apply to the airline though.
Major Travel are a decent travel; agent and may be able to help you deal with the airline, but the contract you have is with BMI, not the travel agent. Certainly no harm in speaking to them about this as they may have contacts at BMI that get this sorted out for you more quickly, and the agency will carry some "clout" with the airline.
The EU legislation is fairly strict and they cannot get out of it by saying that an economy seat was the only one available. There are other routes to Barbados they could have sent you on with availability in Premium Economy (Virgin atlantic springs to mind).
Technical problems are their fault - this is within their control. Weather related problems and strikes are not within their control.