What is the 3 hour rule for planes?

**What is the 3-hour rule for planes?**

The 3-hour rule for planes pertains to the compensation rule that applies to passengers who are involuntarily bumped from an oversold flight. If you have a confirmed reservation and you check in on time, but you are denied boarding because the flight is oversold, the airline must pay you compensation.

The compensation is calculated based on the length of the delay caused by being bumped from the flight. If the airline arranges substitute transportation that will get you to your final destination within one hour of your original scheduled arrival, no compensation is required. However, if the airline arranges substitute transportation that will get you to your final destination between one and two hours after your original arrival time (or between one and four hours on an international flight), the airline must pay you 200% of your one-way fare to your final destination that day, with a $675 maximum. If it takes longer, the compensation increases to 400% of your one-way fare, with a $1350 maximum.

**Frequently Asked Questions about the 3-hour rule for planes**

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What should I do if I am bumped from a flight?

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If you are involuntarily bumped from a flight, the airline is required to give you a written statement that explains your rights and the airline’s boarding priorities. The airline should also compensate you according to the 3-hour rule if applicable.

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Are there any exceptions to the 3-hour rule?

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The 3-hour rule does not apply if the airline can get you to your final destination within one hour of your original scheduled arrival time for a domestic flight, or within two hours for an international flight.

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Can I voluntarily give up my seat for compensation?

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Yes, you can choose to give up your seat in exchange for compensation. This is known as voluntary bumping and the terms of the compensation should be negotiated between you and the airline.

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What if I miss my connecting flight due to being bumped?

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If you miss a connecting flight due to being bumped from your original flight, the airline is responsible for getting you to your final destination or offering you compensation according to the 3-hour rule.

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How is the compensation calculated for being bumped from a flight?

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The compensation is calculated based on the length of the delay caused by being bumped from the flight. It is based on the one-way fare to your final destination, with specific percentages and maximum amounts set by the regulations.

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Can the airline remove me from a flight for any reason?

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Airline employees may refuse to board you for various reasons, including being intoxicated, not having proper identification, or engaging in disruptive behavior. However, the 3-hour rule specifically applies to being involuntarily bumped from an oversold flight.

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Can I request cash compensation instead of a voucher?

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You have the right to request cash compensation instead of a voucher if you are bumped from a flight. The airline must provide you with the choice between a voucher and monetary compensation.

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What should I do if I feel that my rights have been violated by an airline?

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If you feel that your rights as a passenger have been violated by an airline, you can file a complaint with the Department of Transportation (DOT) or seek legal advice from a consumer rights attorney.

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How can I avoid being bumped from a flight?

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To avoid being bumped from a flight, it’s recommended to check in as early as possible, have a confirmed reservation, and arrive at the gate on time. Additionally, joining the airline’s frequent flyer program may also improve your chances of not being bumped.

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What happens if the airline cannot find a substitute flight for me?

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If the airline cannot find a substitute flight for you within a reasonable amount of time, they are still responsible for compensating you according to the 3-hour rule, unless they can arrange substitute transportation that will get you to your final destination within the specified timeframe.

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What is the purpose of the 3-hour rule for planes?

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The 3-hour rule is designed to protect passengers from being unfairly bumped from oversold flights without proper compensation. It ensures that passengers are fairly compensated for the inconvenience caused by being involuntarily denied boarding.