What compensation do you get if you are bumped from an oversold flight?

The short answer

DOT says airlines may overbook, but must first ask for volunteers. If you are involuntarily bumped from a flight departing a US airport and reach your destination more than one hour late, you may be owed 200% or 400% of your one-way fare, subject to limits.

Volunteers and involuntary bumping

Airlines must tell volunteers if they risk being bumped involuntarily and must disclose the compensation owed in that case. There is no limit on what airlines may offer volunteers. Bumped passengers must get a written statement of their rights.

DOT says generally an airline cannot bump you after you checked in on time and the gate agent accepted your boarding pass, unless there is a safety, security or health reason or disruptive behavior.

When you qualify for compensation

• You depart from a US airport.
• You have a confirmed reservation.
• You checked in on time and reached the gate on time.
• The airline cannot get you to your destination within one hour of the original arrival time.

How much

• Domestic: 1 to 2 hour delay, 200% of the one-way fare (airline may cap at $1,075). Over 2 hours, 400% (cap $2,150).
• International departing the US: 1 to 4 hour delay, 200% (cap $1,075). Over 4 hours, 400% (cap $2,150).
• Airlines must offer payment at the airport the same day, or within 24 hours if you leave on substitute transport first.

No compensation cases

DOT lists exceptions including a smaller aircraft swap, weight and balance limits on planes with 60 or fewer seats, charter flights, planes under 30 seats, and flights departing a foreign location. Flights from the EU have their own European rules. For deeper rights, see travelrightschecker.com. Rules change, check the official page before you travel.

Sources: DOT: Bumping and Oversales. Read 5 November 2026. Rules and fees change, so check the official page before you travel.

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