Airlines sell more tickets than seats — it's called overbooking. When everyone shows up, someone gets bumped. Know your rights BEFORE it happens to you.
How Overbooking Works
- 📊 Airlines overbook by 5-10% because historically that many passengers no-show
- ⚠️ When it goes wrong: More passengers than seats → someone gets denied boarding
- 🙋 First ask for volunteers: Airlines must ask for volunteers before forcing anyone off
Your DGCA Rights
Pro Tip: Volunteer!
- 🎁 Volunteering to be bumped often gets you better deals than forced bumping
- 💰 Negotiate: Ask for vouchers, upgrades, or cash — airlines are flexible with volunteers
- 📅 Best strategy: If your schedule is flexible, arrive early and tell the gate agent you'd volunteer