Overbooking is a common practice where airlines sell more seats than are available on the aircraft, anticipating that some passengers won't show up. In rare cases, this can result in passengers being denied boarding even though they have a valid ticket.

If this happens to you, the airline is required to offer you alternatives. They will typically try to rebook you on the next available flight at no extra cost. In many cases, the airline will also offer compensation, which can come in the form of cash, travel vouchers, meal vouchers, or other benefits.

If you're flying from or within the European Union, you have strong protections under EU Regulation 261/2004. If you are involuntarily denied boarding due to overbooking, you are entitled to financial compensation of up to EUR250 for short-haul flights, EUR400 for medium-haul flights, and EUR600 for long-haul flights. The airline must also offer you the choice between rebooking and a full refund, as well as meals and accommodation if you need to wait for a later flight.

In the United States, airlines are also required to compensate passengers who are involuntarily bumped, typically up to 400% of the one-way fare depending on the length of the delay caused.

If you are denied boarding, make sure to get written confirmation from the airline at the airport, including the reason and any compensation offered. This documentation will be important if you need to file a claim later.

Please note that Farera, as a booking intermediary, cannot process denied boarding compensation on your behalf. These claims must be handled directly with the airline, as they are the operating carrier responsible for the flight.