By The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Holidays are the most likely time for an airline practice known as bumping. Bumping is a result of an airline overbooking a flight, betting the overflow will replace an expected percentage of no-shows. When this occurs, gate agents ask for volunteers to take a later flight. Involuntary bumping can follow when there aren't enough volunteers.  Know your check-in time, usually 10 to 20 minutes before the flight. If you are late, you have no rights when bumped.
The airline will ask for volunteers, offering things such as a free round trip or dollar-value voucher, before bumping involuntarily. Be sure to find out if the airline is going to book you on the next available flight.
If you are involuntarily bumped, government protections kick in. You can ask to go on another airline and you are entitled to compensation up to $400 for being bumped.
If you are offered a free ticket for being involuntarily bumped, consider that option because the ticket may be worth more than cash.
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