What Happens If an Airline Overbooks a Flight in the US: A Comprehensive Guide

When an airline overbooks a flight, it means that there are more passengers with tickets booked for a particular flight than the aircraft can accommodate. This situation can lead to a variety of scenarios, including passengers missing their flights, needing to be rebooked on alternative flights, and some possible financial compensations. In this guide, we will explore the various consequences and rights passengers have under US law.

Understanding Airline Overbooking

Overbooking is a common practice in the airline industry to account for last-minute cancellations, no-shows, or passengers choosing to stay home. However, when the number of booked passengers exceeds the capacity of a flight, it can result in passengers being denied boarding. This is known as 'board denied'.

According to the US Department of Transportation (DOT), an airline must overbook in a responsible manner and notify passengers of the potential for overbooking before they board the flight. If an overbooking situation arises, the airline must offer passengers who are bumped from their flight alternative options to reach their destination.

Compensation for Overbooked Passengers

When an airline overbooks a flight and passengers are denied boarding, they may be offered rebooking options or financial compensation. The specific terms of the compensation can vary according to the airline and the compensation policy they follow.

Alternative Booking

One of the most common solutions offered to overbooked passengers is rebooking on an alternative flight. This alternative flight might be on a different day, at a later time, or even on a different airline, depending on availability. Passengers who accept the alternative flight will typically receive a waiver of a rebooking fee, though some airlines might require a repurchase of some or all of the original ticket, or a slight difference in price depending on the time and flight schedule.

Financial Compensation

In some cases, passengers may be offered financial compensation in lieu of rebooking. This compensation can take various forms, such as:

Meal and/or hotel stay: If passengers are rebooked on a flight that departs significantly later than their original scheduled departure, they may be offered a meal and/or a hotel stay. These costs are usually covered by the airline. Travel vouchers: Some airlines offer travel vouchers that can be used for a future purchase, either with the same airline or with a different one. Compensation payment: If a passenger is denied boarding and remains at the airport, the airline may pay a certain amount per hour of delay. The specifics of this compensation can vary according to the airline.

Passenger Rights Under US Law

Under the airline passenger rights law in the US, known as the Airline Passenger Protection Rule (APPR), airlines must provide certain protections to passengers in the case of overbooking. Specifically, the DOT requires airlines to offer passengers compensation when overbooking prevents a passenger from traveling, or when they are rebooked on a later or less desirable flight. The extent of this compensation can vary based on the length of the delay or the inconvenience caused to the passengers.

Strategies for Passengers Facing Overbooking

If you find yourself facing overbooking, there are several strategies you can employ to protect your rights:

Pay attention to airline policies: Understand the compensation and rebooking policies of the airline you are traveling with, as these can differ significantly. Contact the airline promptly: If you learn that your flight is overbooked before boarding, try contacting the airline to discuss your options before arriving at the airport. Choose volunteers: If offered, consider voluntarily giving up your seat. In return, airlines often offer a higher financial incentive. Use travel insurance: Some travel insurance policies can help cover the costs associated with overbooking, such as hotel stays or missed flights. Report the incident: If you are denied boarding or have your flight significantly delayed, you may want to file a complaint with the airline and the DOT. Documentation of your experience can be very helpful in this process.

Conclusion

Airline overbooking can be a frustrating experience for passengers, but being informed about your rights and strategies can help you navigate the situation more effectively. By understanding the US law and keeping your options open, you can increase the likelihood of a smoother travel experience.

Should you have any further questions about airline overbooking or your passenger rights, the DOT's official website can provide additional information and resources.