Does anyone know the government Web site that gives a history of what flights have been overbooked and required volunteers to give up their seats? I've heard that this history can be an invaluable guide in planning to be bumped.

The best way to increase your chances of bing bumped that I have found: call the night before to see how the flight is looking. If it looks overbooked, arrive at the airport 2 hours early so that you can be first on the list. I never bother to ask at check-in, but go directly to the gate. If I am traveling with someone and I sniff chaos in the air, I leave my companion at check-in and head right to the gate to be first in line.

If I do get bumped, I always insist (in a friendly way)on receiving a Customer Care packet that has a free phone card, free headset rental or free drink, and a discount off my next flight. America West and Continental have always provided me with these. Also, if there is a delay due to a mechanical problem, my request for one of these packets has never been turned down.

Lastly, even if you are not an elite member, asked to be placed in first class on the next available flight (no matter what airline you will be flying) and make sure they do not put you on standby (being an elite member definitely helps here).