What to Do if You Get Bumped From an Overbooked Flight

With the recent news of United kicking a doctor off an overbooked flight it’s a good time to brush up on your rights and what to do if you get bumped from a flight.

Airlines are not required to compensate you if you’re on a domestic flight that is cancelled or delayed but for international flights the airline may be responsible for reimbursing any expenses incurred as a result of the delay.

If your flight is overbooked and you volunteer to give up your seat negotiate for a fee that you’re comfortable with or ask for taxi fare, meals, or lodging in addition to the fee.

When accepting compensation be sure to ask what the details are regarding the voucher you’ll get - your $300 could end up as six $50 vouchers that can only be used one at a time!

Getting involuntarily bumped? Then you’re eligible for up to $1350 in cash and a written copy of your rights and the airline’s policy in addition to being booked on another flight or getting refunded the cost of your ticket.

Know your rights before you fly! For flights originating in the United States the full bill of rights for flyers can be found here: https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/fly-rights