mdtony,

you are probably right in most cases. However, not every piece of fine print is binding because most people don't read it and a lot of it is unconscionable (extremely unfair). Its the law in most places that a court does not have to honor the fine print in either case. Its particularly likely to be the case with an air carrier that is supposed to serve the public and which via licensing and gate assignments has a quasi-monoply, or where bargaining power is not equal and the contract is a take it or leave it basis.

I mostly agree with you but its not an absolute thing.