Bumped from Your Flight? Know Your Rights
Air travel can be unpredictable, and one of the most frustrating scenarios passengers face is being involuntarily bumped from an overbooked flight. In 2022, nearly 13,000 passengers were denied boarding due to overbooking, highlighting the importance of understanding your rights and options.
When airlines overbook, they sometimes need to remove passengers from a flight. Here's what you should know:
- Compensation Rules: Federal regulations require airlines to compensate passengers who are involuntarily bumped, with potential payouts ranging from 200-400% of your one-way ticket price.
- Your Rights: If you're bumped, you're entitled to:
- Written explanation of why you were bumped
- Rerouting to your destination
- Potential monetary compensation
- Proactive Strategies:
- Check-in early
- Join airline loyalty programs
- Be flexible with your travel plans
If you're bumped, remain calm and professional. Request a detailed explanation and ask about immediate rebooking options. Keep all documentation, as it can be crucial for potential compensation claims.
While being bumped is never pleasant, knowing your rights can transform a potentially stressful situation into a manageable inconvenience. Always stay informed and prepared when traveling.
