LX380 had an equipment change on friday night and they were asking for VDB (250 euro, hotel and food) with seats on the flight the morning after. Three guys who work together took the VDB and were evidently planning on having a riotous p!ss up in Zurich instead of going home. I overheard one of them convincing the other two that they could each claim 600 euro under EU261 as well as the VDB comp. I'm fairly sure of the answer to this, but he's dreaming, right?

A more serious question though; is one entitled to EU261 compensation if the airline forcible denies you boarding (i.e. you don't volunteer), even if they offer you hotel, food and compensation at point of denial? If you want to get EU261 comp then do you have to turn down financial comp at the gate? Do you also have to turn down the hotel and food? Does accepting any of it negate your claim to EU261? Or, does turning it down negate your claim to EU261???

PS: LX did a fantastic job of dealing with this situation. The staff were great and we were kept well informed. Notification of overbooking was sent by text well in advance. Despite a few grumbles from people not getting their aisle/window/business class seat everyone got to Manchester on time and well served.