Overbooked Flights in the UK and Globally: Passengers Now Most Likely to Be Bumped, Experts Warn – Travel And Tour World

Over 6 million passengers are not allowed to get on annual flights due to overbooked flights, and experts say some passengers are likely to get bumped than others. Overbooking is also a popular tactic employed by the airline industry wherein carriers print greater numbers of tickets than are seated on the plane in expectation of passengers not showing for flights. However, when all ticket holders do show for flights, carriers are stuck having to choose passengers to ask to get off of the plane.

Experts claim some passengers are in greater risk of becoming victims of this practice than others and these include solo travelers, business travelers, and tourists booking flights not as part of a package deal. In fact, a recent survey by Go.Compare discovered business travelers were most likely to be bumped when flying after 38% had complained of denial of boarding at some point whilst just 16% of leisure travelers reported this denial of boarding.

The Risk Factors: Who is Most Likely to Be Bumped?

According to the survey, solo travelers are also at a higher risk of being bumped from overbooked flights. Around 21% of solo travelers have experienced overbooking issues, compared to 12% of those traveling with families. Interestingly, traveling with friends does not necessarily guarantee immunity, with nearly a quarter of those traveling with friends also facing overbooking issues.

The survey also revealed that passengers on package holidays were less likely to experience this inconvenience. Just 16% of those traveling on package holidays had been affected by overbooking, while 16% of travelers with children also reported being bumped from flights.

Rhys Jones, a travel insurance expert at Go.Compare, explained that airlines often opt to bump solo travelers because it is easier to rebook one person onto another flight rather than disrupt a group. Additionally, airlines tend to prioritize passengers who may require extra assistance, such as families with children. As a result, families are often less likely to be bumped from flights.

What Happens If You’re Bumped from Your Flight?

When a passenger is denied boarding due to overbooking, airlines are legally required to arrange an alternative flight for the affected passenger. In addition, passengers should expect to receive compensation depending on the length of the delay caused by the rebooking. Compensation amounts may vary based on the distance of the flight and the amount of time the passenger is delayed.

However, travel insurance typically does not cover overbooking incidents, as the responsibility falls on the airline. Rhys Jones highlighted that although airlines should handle the rebooking and compensation process, travelers should be aware of their rights and ensure they are provided with suitable alternatives.

“If you miss a connection or are unable to get to your accommodation on time, you may be entitled to claim compensation from your airline for additional costs,” Jones added. He also noted that some travel insurance policies offer optional coverage for travel disruption, which could protect passengers in case of overbooking or other delays caused by the airline. Travelers are encouraged to check their insurance policies to see if they include this protection.

The Legal Rights of Passengers

In the UK and EU, passengers who are bumped from a flight due to overbooking are entitled to compensation under EU regulations. The compensation can range from €250 to €600 depending on the flight distance and the delay duration. Additionally, passengers are entitled to care and assistance, including meals, refreshments, and hotel accommodation if necessary.

In the United States, the Department of Transportation (DOT) enforces rules regarding overbooking and compensation. Passengers who are involuntarily bumped from a flight may be entitled to compensation, which can vary based on the length of the delay and the specific circumstances of the overbooking.

It’s important for passengers to know their rights when it comes to overbooking, as airlines are required to offer adequate alternatives and compensation for any disruptions caused by their overbooking practices.

How to Avoid Being Bumped

While there’s no guaranteed way to avoid being bumped from a flight, passengers can take a few proactive steps to reduce their chances. Booking flights well in advance, choosing less busy flight times, and arriving at the airport early can increase the likelihood of securing a seat. Additionally, frequent flyers with loyalty status may have a better chance of being accommodated if their flight is overbooked.

Traveling with a group or family can also help reduce the risk of being bumped, as airlines tend to prioritize keeping groups together. Solo travelers and those with flexible travel plans may be more susceptible to being selected for rebooking.

Conclusion: What to Do If You’re Bumped

Though having your flight bumped can disrupt your travel plans, passengers would do well to stay calm and know their rights. In case you are not permitted to board voluntarily, ensure that the airline offers a decent alternative flight and compensation when necessary. It’s also a great idea to review your travel insurance policy and determine if it covers trip disruptions due to overbooking.

Because carriers will continue to utilize overbooking to attain highest occupancy level, passengers are better off being prepared to be bumped. Knowing your rights and alternatives will go a great way to having your overbooking inconvenience go smoothly.

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