thank you - very good summary update (for US travel).

and if you don't want to get bumped on a risky flight (with a very discounted ticket), make sure you have ordered a special meal (my best bet would be: kosher). The airline will in most cases not "dare" to bump you and risk not to be able to serve you on the next flight. Make your point clear (in a very friendly way) about your non-tolerance of another meal, when you check-in - and again at the gate.