DOT: Airlines should pay bumped passengers more

Thank you very much. It is about time someone says the airlines should do more.

I have seen people bumped and it is not pretty to say the least. If I am no hurry, I do not mind sleeping at an airport for a free R/T airfare with the 48 states. However, most people do free airfare or not. It seems people bumped pay the cheapest fare according to my inside information people I network with.

I am not saying purchase the most expensive coach class fare (refundable anytime), but please keep this in mind when traveling;

Call the airline and see how booked a flight is or purchase in advance as the fares will be cheaper.

If you have a problem with the airline, write a complaint and make yourself known by stating the issues (include names and flight numbers). I did this two-three times at US Airways and have received $75 vouchers or FF miles added to my account.

Finally, be flexible. If the airline bumps you, ask about hotel vouchers or upgrades. I once got offered two free R/T airfare within the 48 states to be bumped and if it were not for my sisters health, I would have taken it. Consider your options; sue it may not be nice but a another vacation with free airfare is. Being bumped has positives and negatives so if given the choice, think about the upsides.

KH