Originally Posted by AAJetMan
Does the possibility of a "weight" bump add to the chances of a bump on a smaller aircraft? Or do they consider a "full flight" to be less than 100% capacity, allowing for weight?
A weight bump can add to the chances of a bump on a smaller aircraft.
I live in a city where only NW Airlink turboprops operate. Both here and in MSP en route to here there have been times they have asked for volunteers due to weight/balance issues. It depends on the weather, number of checked bags, etc. A full flight with all 30 seats taken might be fine one day to take off but another day due to temperature or weight issues they have to ask for several volunteers off a flight booked to 30 passengers. Once in MSP I heard the GA asking for 7 volunteers off a 30 passenger plane (the next gate over, not my flight). That was due to weight issues.
Whether you accept a dollar off voucher or a free ticket should depend largely on how far in advance you plan and the destination you are likely to use the ticket. I find that the free ticket is often more valuable than $200 or $300 vouchers. That is because I tend to book way in advance with these vouchers, thus giving me access to seat availability. And I don't use them to FL during spring break, etc. It just depends on your travel and booking patterns.