I once had a sneaky $0 compensation VDB at IAD. We were flying IAD-JFK-Europe and they were practically begging for VDB's on the CRJ from IAD. They offered a few folks an "opportunity" to hop on AF IAD-CDG for "free" (that would not work for my itinerary) and then they still needed more.

So I go up to the podium and find an uncomfortably tight itinerary leaving DCA connecting to my original Europe flight in JFK. I would have to leave NOW to zoom out to DCA and get it though. I said it would be fine to do as long as I get a voucher and the luggage continues on its way to JFK.

They say "sounds great"...rebook me and say "this flight is actually unbalanced due to luggage so you will have to collect it at claim." I tell them I have severe doubts my luggage can get to baggage claim but she promises me it will. They tell me to hurry, and I ask them for my voucher before I go. They print out a Taxi (!!) voucher and then stare at me wondering why I have not left yet.

I make a big fuss, tell them I never accepted this, put me back on the flight, etc. The redcoat eventually gives me a $100 VDB, tells me my luggage will be at the baggage claim, and to get going.

Needless to say...the baggage never did show up at baggage claim, I was without clean clothes in Europe for three days, and I tipped the taxi driver $30 for his heroically fast drive down the Dulles Toll Road to DCA. We barely did make our DCA flight. Thanks DL.