What Is Airline Overbooking?

Imagine you have spent months saving, researching, planning, and buying everything in advance to live a dream vacation when suddenly you arrive at the airport and are told that your flight is "overbooked." Many of us have gone through this airline overbooking problem because it is more common than it should be. 

This article will help you to understand the concept of overbooked flights and how you can get denied boarding compensation. 
 

Why do Airlines Overbook Flights 

Flight Overbooking is a very common practice among airlines, which consists of selling more seats than the aircraft's capacity to fill to the maximum capacity in case someone does not show up, misses, or cancels the flight. In a nutshell, this practice is meant to avoid empty seats on a plane. 

According to the International Air Transport Association, this helps to keep costs and fares lower, which ultimately benefits consumers. However, this practice can result in situations such as bumping passengers from a flight, either voluntarily or involuntarily. 

Voluntary Bumping 

When airlines overbook domestic or international flights, they generally look for passengers who can give up their seats voluntarily in exchange for compensation. They especially look at passengers' check-in time and ask them if they are willing to give up their tickets. This process is called voluntary bumping. 

For this, you might get alternative flights departing the same day or the next day or even upgrades on your next flight. 

Involuntary Bumping 

If no one volunteers or is not ready to give up their seats, then the airline itself decides who is going to be bumped from a flight. Considering the check-in time, fare class, and passenger's frequent flyer status, the airline can involuntarily bump the air passengers and give them compensation for their future flight, hotel room, and other alternative arrangements that are needed. 

As travelers, we have obligations and rights that protect us in case we have to deal with this experience because when we buy a ticket, the airline signs a contract with us to fulfill services that have been paid for on our end. 
 

What You Will Get For Overbooked Flight Compensation 

If, unfortunately, you are bumped due to airline overbooking, you may be entitled to compensation under federal regulations. You also have the right to request the following from the airline staff.  

• Another international or domestic flight ticket to your final destination on the next available flight, as well as necessary food in case the wait is prolonged. 

• In case the alternate flight has to be rescheduled for the next day, you can claim compensation from the airline for accommodations, transportation, and food. 

• The denied boarding also results in a total refund for the price of the airplane ticket purchased. 

• Indemnify the passenger for the effects that this may bring (the percentage will depend on each airline) 

Keep in mind that these details are specified at the time of purchasing your plane ticket. Read the documentation before accepting to buy a plane ticket. In addition, many airlines will not negotiate any of the points above if your ticket was purchased with a discount fare. 

Tips to Avoid Airline Booking Issues 

While you can get the airline overbooking compensation, it will be great if you avoid getting into such circumstances. To do so, you can follow some of the tips to prevent yourself from this issue. 

• Try to check in early. This will lessen your chances of getting bumped if there aren't any extra seats left on the plane. 

• Choose less popular times to fly as the chances for overbooked flights become very low. Consider early morning and midweek flights for available seats. 

• Review the terms and conditions well. High-discounted ticket prices are more likely to get involuntary bumping without any compensation. 

• Confirm your flight details a few days before the departure date. This will make sure that your seat is secured and your boarding pass is ready. 
   

Conclusion 

Hopefully, these tips will give you clarity on airline overbooking and how to avoid getting into these circumstances. While overbooked flight compensation is provided by airlines, there might be some situations that can not be covered. To get your expenses covered, consider buying a travel insurance plan for trip delays, cancellations, and more. 

At AXA, we provide 24/7 support, protection, and security in any corner of the world. We are here to help you through overwhelming situations while traveling. So, what are you waiting for; get your travel insurance quote today.