IDB Tactics?
 

**Title should be VDB (Voluntarily denied boarding)


Hey everyone,

I'm flying EWR-PBI tomorrow morning (1050am) and, after a bit of checking, have realized that every EWR-PBI flight from about noon today until noon tomorrow are extremely oversold. Although I have to check bags, my plans are extremely flexible and I have no problem being bumped off this totally full flight. Are there any tactics I should keep in mind when speaking with the GA? Should I offer alternative routings to get me down to PBI later tomorrow night? What sort of compensation should I be expecting? Any other tips?

Thanks!

I am just curious, how do you find out a find is 'extremely' oversold the evening before, unless you work for CO, and can see the exact booking #"S?

I'd love to be able to check this stuff out in advance.

Unfortunately, I"m not relying on any quantitative statistics when I say "extremely," just the candor of an extremely friendly representative at the Elite Desk. She mentioned that the early morning flights were oversold by "15-20" and my particular flight by about "5-6."

It'd be great to see that information though.


Also, having flown EWR-PBI many times over the years, you start to get a feel for the capacity of the flights based on how quickly they sell on co.com for particular dates and times.

I'd hope for at least $250.

I have found that checked baggage can be a problem, depending on who else volunteers. They'd rather have somebody without it, if possible.

But I'm sure anything could happen.

Good Luck
 

Be at the gate for (CO 1514 EWR-PBI) 60-70 minutes before scheduled departure.

Give the GA time to log in to the gate computer.

"Hi. Just curious if you needed any volunteers."

Don't mention you have checked bags unless they ask.
(If the subject does not come up....unlikely...ask about your bags after you have your voucher in-hand.)

Once you talk with the GA, don't hover at the check-in desk.

Know that it's more important/relevant to talk to the GA about your willingness to volunteer than it is to indicate so at check-in. Do both, but don't assume you're on the VDB list just because you volunteered on-line.

If you get a bump try to stay in the area..be able to hear any announcements from the GA. If they raise the compensation you're entitled to the higher amount.

Have alternative carrier/flight routings available, just in case.

If you're re-routed on CO you get the miles flown.
If you're re-routed on another carrier, you can get CO original routing credit.

Good luck/hunting.

Let us know what happens