How much does an airline have to compensate you for an overbooked flight?

Denied Boarding Compensation: Know Your Rights When Bumped From an Overbooked Flight

Overbooking flights is a common airline practice, aimed at maximizing profits by filling seats left empty by no-shows. While often seamless, this strategy occasionally backfires, leading to passengers being involuntarily denied boarding. Knowing your rights in such a situation is crucial, as you’re entitled to significant compensation, far exceeding a simple apology.

Being “bumped” from a flight is frustrating, but understanding the compensation structure can alleviate some of the stress. Airlines are legally obligated to compensate passengers denied boarding involuntarily, and this compensation goes beyond simply rebooking you on the next available flight. The amount you receive hinges on several factors, primarily the length of the delay caused by the bumping.

Domestic Flights within the US:

For domestic flights within the United States, the compensation structure is tiered based on the delay at your arrival compared to your original scheduled arrival time:

• Arrival Delay of 1-2 hours: Airlines must compensate you up to 200% of your one-way fare, with a maximum payout of $775.
• Arrival Delay of More than 2 hours: Airlines must compensate you up to 400% of your one-way fare, with a maximum payout of $1,550.

These are the legally mandated minimums. Airlines may offer more, especially if they’re seeking volunteers to give up their seats before resorting to involuntary bumping. Negotiating a better deal, like a travel voucher for future flights or an upgrade on your rebooked flight, is often possible.

International Flights:

Compensation for international flights departing from or arriving in the US follows different regulations, often governed by the originating country’s laws. However, if the flight is operated by a US carrier, the same rules as domestic flights generally apply. It’s always best to check the specific airline’s policies and the regulations of the countries involved.

Beyond Monetary Compensation:

In addition to the monetary compensation, airlines are typically required to provide:

• Rebooking on the next available flight: This includes flights on other airlines if necessary.
• Hotel accommodations: If your rebooked flight departs the next day, the airline should cover your hotel stay.
• Meals and Transportation: Airlines should provide meal vouchers and cover transportation costs between the airport and your hotel.

Tips for Navigating Denied Boarding:

• Know your rights: Familiarize yourself with the regulations before you fly.
• Don’t be the first to volunteer: Wait and see what the airline offers. They might increase the incentives to avoid involuntarily bumping passengers.
• Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to ask for more than the initial offer.
• Document everything: Keep records of your original ticket, the denied boarding compensation form, and any other relevant documents.

Being denied boarding is undoubtedly inconvenient, but understanding your entitlement to compensation can make the experience less frustrating. By knowing your rights and advocating for yourself, you can ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.