FORT MYERS, Fla-- Overbooking isn't illegal. Airlines can choose to bump you from a flight but the U.S. Department of Transportation requires the company in most circumstances to compensate you.
If you are involuntarily bumped, DOT said you deserve a written statement why. But you may be surprised to learn if they get you to your final destination within an hour of your original time they aren't required to pay you. Also, if you arrive after the check-in deadline they can bump you without compensation.
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Scot Goldberg, a Ft.Myers attorney said a similar case, to the recent viral bumping, rewarded a couple $208,000 in the 1980's. Goldberg believes the most recent United Airlines case could force airlines to change its procedures.
"This case is going to be one that sets the standard because airlines over many, many years have been overbooking their flights and they've been doing that for a reason because they want to fill all their seats," said Goldberg.
