It was recently reported by the Associated Press that, last year, Southwest Airlines, which carried the most  passengers in the United States, bumped more passengers (13,113)  than any American carrier. This number came to 80 percent more than the next closest airline.

Southwest was fined $200,000 by the Transportation Department for violating the rules of bumping passengers off of oversold flights. It was found that Southwest failed to promptly pay bumped customers and give them written notices of their flights.

So, according to this article, what are some of your rights mandated by Federal law?

1)Before you get bumped, airlines must first ask for volunteers who will give up their seats in exchange for compensation.

2)Most passengers  bumped from flights are entitled to up to $800.00 in cash.

3) Airlines are required to provide you with a written notice that informs you about your rights and how the airline decided who was bumped.

4)Airlines can offer travel vouchers, but only after informing you what you are owed and that you are entitled to cash or a check instead of the voucher.