What to Do if Your Flight is Overbooked

Handling Overbooking Situations

Airlines sometimes sell more seats than available. Here is what happens and what your rights are.

Voluntary Denied Boarding

We first ask for volunteers willing to give up their seat. In exchange, you may receive:

• A travel voucher (typically $200–$800 depending on flight length)
• Rebooking on the next available flight at no cost
• Meal vouchers and hotel accommodation if an overnight stay is required

Involuntary Denied Boarding

If there are not enough volunteers, passengers may be denied boarding involuntarily. In this case, under applicable regulations, you are entitled to:

• Full cash compensation (not just a voucher)
• Rebooking on the earliest available flight
• Care and assistance (meals, refreshments, accommodation)

How to Protect Yourself

• Check in as early as possible — passengers who check in later are more likely to be bumped.
• Arrive at the gate on time.
• Hold elite status to reduce the risk of involuntary denial.