Imagine arriving at the gate for your carefully planned trip, only to be told your flight is overbooked and you cannot board. This frustrating scenario is something no traveler wants to experience. But if it happens, do you know how to protect your rights?

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has clear compensation rules for passengers denied boarding due to airline overbooking. While you may have heard claims of "up to 400% ticket price compensation," the reality is more nuanced.

Under current regulations, compensation is not simply a percentage of the ticket price but is directly tied to the length of the delay caused by the overbooking. Specifically:

• No compensation is required if the airline can get you to your destination within 1 hour of your original arrival time.

• Escalating compensation applies for longer delays, with the maximum payout reaching $1,350.

It’s important to note that these compensation standards are subject to updates by the DOT. If you find yourself in this situation, immediately ask the airline for their current policy details and retain all documentation—such as boarding passes and denial notices—to support any claims.

Understanding these rules ensures you can respond calmly and effectively the next time an overbooking disrupts your travel plans, safeguarding your rights as a passenger.