Glossary
Denied Boarding
Definition: Denied boarding occurs when an airline refuses to allow a confirmed, checked-in passenger to board a flight, usually due to overbooking. Passengers are entitled to compensation and rebooking under DOT and EU261 rules.
Airlines routinely overbook flights because a percentage of passengers don’t show up. When more passengers arrive than seats available, some must be "bumped." Airlines first seek volunteers willing to take a later flight in exchange for compensation (vouchers, cash, or miles).
If insufficient volunteers come forward, the airline will involuntarily deny boarding to passengers. Under US DOT rules, involuntarily denied passengers on domestic flights are entitled to cash compensation of up to $1,550 depending on the delay length. Under EU261, compensation can reach €600 plus duty of care.
Denied boarding is less common in business class because premium cabins are less frequently overbooked. However, it can occur, particularly on high-demand routes during peak periods. BookMyBusinessClass tickets are confirmed reservations with the airline, providing the same denied boarding protections as any other ticket.