American Airlines ends involuntary denied boarding in favour of volunteers
American Airlines has told airport staff to seek volunteers rather than force passengers off overbooked flights, a change that took effect on 30 September and covers mainline and regional operations.
American Airlines has stopped involuntary denied boarding as a company practice. Airport employees are now told to look for volunteers when a flight is overbooked. The directive took effect on 30 September.
It covers mainline and regional operations, domestic and international flights alike.
Staff are to seek passengers willing to give up their seats instead of removing anyone against their will. Volunteers can also be confirmed on the next departure even when that flight is technically full. The aim is to keep passengers from being forced off flights. The airline accepts that departures may be delayed, and that compensation offered may be substantially higher.
Sources
- simpleflying.com“Take A Delay” Instead: American Airlines Ends Bumping Passengers Involuntarily Off Flights