Volunteer or involuntary?
If you volunteer to give up your seat, you negotiate what you get, often a voucher. Ask about expiry dates, meals and hotel before you agree. If you're bumped against your will, rules set what the airline owes you.
U.S. flights
For involuntary bumping on flights from the U.S., airlines must pay compensation based on your fare and how late you arrive, up to a set cap, usually paid on the spot. See the Department of Transportation's bumping rules.
European flights
Under EU261, involuntary denied boarding on covered flights can mean €250 to €600 per person, depending on distance, plus rerouting or a refund and meals while you wait.
See if your airline owes you money
Free flight check. Compensair handles the claim and keeps a share only if it succeeds.
What to do at the gate
- Ask whether you're being denied boarding involuntarily.
- Ask for a written statement of your rights.
- Keep your boarding pass and booking confirmation.
Find a plan that fits your budget
Estimate your price, then compare insurers side by side.
General information only, not insurance advice. Coverage varies by plan, state and country. Always read the policy wording before you buy.