Theoretical Overbooking Question....
 

What would happen if an airline needs volunteers, and a person who has bought an extra seat for his/ her large item (which he/she did not want to check in) decided to give up that seat when asked. Is any compensation (beyond ticket refund) due?

I didn't think that packages were allowed on the seats, even if you purchase them. I have sold extra seats for overweight people though.

They must be under some circumstances; every now and then I read about a musician buying an extra ticket for his/her instrument so that it can ride in the cabin. One violoncello traveled as "Mr. V. Cello."

I cannot answer your question; however, my understanding is that in the case of voluntarily relinquishing your seat, you are not entitled to a refund, but rather compensation in the form of vouchers for future travel and a confirmed seat on the next available flight, even if that means endorsing your ticket to a different carrier.

It is my understanding that you are only entitled to a refund in the case of involuntarily being denied boarding.

Does anyone know if this is correct?

I remember a similar question being posed many years ago... but just as it relates to DBC issues.

BTW, Mr. V. Cello is particularly prone to flying in the LAX-NYC/BOS market.

The answer back then was that because he is an inanimate object, he would not be due DBC. Just re-checked with AA and was, again, informed, 'No' DBC for Mr. Cello.

I have a feeling that the answer you receive here may vary depending on the carrier... the overbooking situation... and on who you talk to. Of course, the airport makes the final decision.

However, its interesting that Mr. V. Cello can purchase any seat on the aircraft, as long as it's not at an exit row...

Perhaps 12A on the 757 would be best???




[This message has been edited by tvl4free (edited 04-29-2001).]

If memory serves from my flight attendant days, this is known as "blocked seat baggage." I once had a priest carry aboard a religious statue for which he had purchased a seat. Regulations at the time were that the item had to "occupy" a seat not located between a passenger and the aisle (and never on a window exit). The bulkhead window seat was preferred so long as there was no exit at that location.