Airlines Overbook: Know Your Rights and Compensation Up to $2,150
Airlines, including Delta, Southwest, United, and American, often overbook flights, which can lead to passengers being bumped, even with confirmed reservations. Passengers are entitled to compensation for such delays, which can reach up to $2,150. Understanding the rules and your rights can help you navigate this situation.
When flights are overbooked, airlines prioritize frequent flyers, those with higher fare classes, and passengers who check in early. Those who check in late, hold basic economy tickets, or travel alone are at higher risk of being bumped. Airlines use set criteria and historical data to predict no-shows and adjust ticket sales.
In the event of a delay due to overbooking, passengers are entitled to compensation. For delays of one to two hours domestically or one to four hours internationally, compensation can reach up to $1,075. For longer delays, the compensation can increase to $2,150. The U.S. Department of Transportation sets clear compensation rules for passengers who are involuntarily bumped. Passengers can negotiate for cash compensation instead of vouchers and ask the airline to rebook them on another carrier if possible. When bumped, passengers should ask the gate agent for written documentation of their rights and check the airline's app for rebooking options.
While airlines overbook flights to maximize revenue, passengers should be aware of their rights in case of involuntary bumping. Understanding the compensation rules and acting promptly can help passengers navigate such situations and receive the compensation they deserve.
