Dear Flyer Experts,

Given the occasional discussion of overbooking, and the fact that I have my first upcoming Cathay flight, I am still educating myself on these procedures. Hopefully load onot the flight is okay and it will not matter, but I am coming a long way ( from MD) for a 0145 out of EWR and do not want to be unprepared.

I have a J ticket - Avios award on Wednesday, May 11th AM flight. I understand compensation is DOT mandated $1350 for IDB. Here is where I get confused: does it mean that I am IDB if refused a seat in J class. Or, can they force PEY class (not sure I would want to fly to HKG that way, if required) and offer no other alternatives? If so, then what is compensation for downgrade?

I tried to Google this before turning to all of you, but no luck. Inquiring minds want to know

Downgrade would be fare difference in cash or mileage refund.

Be honest, I wouldn't worry too much about it especially for J ticket. They will likely find volunteers first.