How do airlines decide who gets bumped?

Passenger Bumping: How Airlines Determine Who Gets Left Behind

Passenger bumping, the involuntary removal of passengers from a flight, is a frustrating experience for travelers. Airlines have established protocols to minimize disruption and ensure fairness in determining who gets bumped.

Factors Influencing Bumping Decisions

Airlines consider several factors when deciding who to bump:

• Fare Type: Passengers who have purchased higher-priced tickets are less likely to be bumped.
• Check-In Time: Passengers who check in early are given priority and are less likely to be selected for bumping.
• Frequent Flyer Status: Members of frequent flyer programs may be given preferential treatment and are less likely to be bumped.
• Established Policies: Airlines have specific policies that prioritize certain passenger categories, such as families with young children, seniors, and passengers with disabilities.
• Minimizing Disruption: Airlines aim to minimize the inconvenience caused by bumping, by selecting passengers who will be least affected. For example, they may consider the length of the passenger’s layover or the availability of alternative flights.

The Bumping Process

If a flight is overbooked, the airline will first request volunteers to give up their seats. Passengers who volunteer may receive compensation or other incentives.

If there are not enough volunteers, the airline will select passengers to be bumped based on the factors mentioned above. Passengers who are bumped are entitled to compensation and assistance, such as rebooking on an alternative flight or a refund.

Passenger Rights

Passengers who are bumped have certain rights:

• Compensation: Airlines are required to provide compensation to passengers who are bumped involuntarily. The amount of compensation varies depending on the length of the delay and the distance of the flight.
• Assistance: Airlines must provide assistance to bumped passengers, such as rebooking on an alternative flight, providing ground transportation, or arranging a hotel stay.
• Appealing the Bumping Decision: Passengers who believe they were bumped unfairly can appeal the airline’s decision.

Conclusion

Passenger bumping is a regrettable but sometimes necessary occurrence in the airline industry. Airlines have established comprehensive protocols to ensure fairness and minimize disruption. By understanding the factors considered and the passenger rights involved, travelers can better navigate the potential inconvenience of being bumped.