Originally Posted by
channa
I'm sure final destination and lack of checked baggage has a lot to do with it. If you're flying SFO-EWR, and all flights to EWR are full, it may make sense to bump someone going to a destination they could get to their final destination via IAH (assuming IAH flights are open) vs. booking another carrier.
Also, in a next day bump situation, I've seen preference given to people who originated there (so they can avoid hotel rooms).
This is why the conversation with the GA is very important. I don't want the GA making any assumptions about my flexibility. If I have no bags, I point that out. If I'm willing to fly to alternate airports, I mention that. If we're two together and can split up, I let them know. I also point out win-win situations they may not be expecting (e.g., $300 + hotel + food + IAH-SFO tomorrow --> $400 + no hotel + no food + IAH-SMF tonight, and I'll take it from there).
Ive done that as well, also i usually hav esome alternative routings on other Carriers just in case Especially with Intl flights. Been told I couldnt be confirmed for 3 days then I said why not route me with BA all the way thru LHR, are you sure thats available let me check, no problem you are correct there are a few seats left on BA.
I feel having my homework done will help both the GA or Counter Rep(if Intl) and me much better and waste less time and sometimes might mean being able to get the other flight rather then overnight it.
I have time on my side most GAs or Reps dont, meaning I can play and check on everything possible they must clear out the flight then those who werent on it and are their responsbility, then move onto their next gate and flight in most cases. So they dont have the time to simply stand there and check everything or think of everything. So its usually whatever the next flight is w/o thinking of other routing or other Carriers. So I try to help them out as well as myself, at times they even were able to outdo me, as my info wasnt up to the minute as theres was, once they understood that I think out of the box and are very flex within reason they too will check around rather then simply say next flight is in 6 hrs or tommorrow