07/06/2026
GET BUMPED FROM A FLIGHT? DO NOT LEAVE THAT GATE.
"Excuse me, did you just bump me off my flight?"
"Sorry, we oversold it and everyone showed up."
"Okay, so how do I get to my destination?"
"No problem, we already rebooked you on one that leaves in three hours."
Here is what to do instead of just accepting it.
Look up "bumped flight compensation" and open the official U.S. Department of Transportation page. Scroll to the compensation table. That is what determines how much the airline owes you.
Bumped with the next flight three hours out means they owe 400% of the one-way fare. On a $300 ticket, that is $1,200 in cash reimbursement.
Now the important part: do not leave the airport. The airline is required to pay it the same day the bump happens, and there is no extra charge for the rebooked flight.
Save this before your next trip.