Getting bumped off a flight has become increasingly common. While this can be a frustrating experience, it is crucial to understand that you have rights when this occurs. Erika Kullberg, a lawyer and popular TikTok influencer, shares valuable insights on maximizing your benefits if you find yourself in this situation.
If you haven’t yet discovered Kullberg’s TikTok videos, you are missing out on essential travel tips. Not only is she a lawyer, but she is also the co-founder of Plug and Law, a firm that specializes in drafting legal agreements such as policies and disclaimers for small businesses. Consequently, she has a deep understanding of the terms and conditions that often go unread.
On her account, you will find invaluable tips on acquiring refunds, promotions, and discounts, alongside numerous videos that explain how to navigate airline policies effectively. This knowledge is critical when dealing with flight cancellations, delayed luggage, or being bumped from a flight.
Kullberg creatively presents each video as a skit, portraying both the frustrated passenger and the airline employee. In her bumped flight video, she initiates the conversation by asking, “What can be done?” when faced with being bumped from her flight. The airline representative, played by Kullberg, responds, “There’s nothing I can do, sorry.”
However, Kullberg turns to the camera, revealing, “She has no idea I follow Erika; watch this,” and confidently asserts her rights.
“According to the Department of Transportation, since the next flight I can take results in over a two-hour delay, I’m entitled to four times the cost of my one-way fare. I paid $250 for that fare, so that amounts to $1,000,” she explains.
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The U.S. Department of Transportation supports Kullberg’s assessment, yet it is essential to note a few important stipulations. To qualify for compensation, travelers must have a confirmed reservation, be checked in for their flight on time, and arrive at the departure gate punctually.
In the case of an overbooked flight, the airline will first solicit volunteers to give up their seats in exchange for compensation, which can range from credit to cash or even discounts. It’s perfectly acceptable to negotiate the compensation amount; therefore, don’t hesitate to ask for more.
If not enough passengers volunteer, the airline may resort to involuntarily bumping travelers. The compensation you receive will be based on a specific scale. If you arrive at your destination within an hour of your original arrival time, then you may not receive any compensation. If the arrival delay is between one to two hours, you could be entitled to 200% of your one-way fare. If it exceeds two hours, compensation rises to 400% of the one-way fare.
