Denied Boarding at a US Airport: DOT Formula
The denied boarding DOT formula sets the compensation amounts for involuntary bumping at US airports: up to $1,075 for a 1-2 hour delay and up to $2,150 for longer delays. Here is exactly how the formula works and how to calculate what you are owed.
The DOT Formula
The denied boarding DOT formula at US airports is set by 14 CFR Part 250. For involuntary denied boarding in 2026, the amounts are:
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No compensation: replacement flight arrives within 1 hour of original.
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200% of one-way fare, up to $1,075: replacement delay 1-2 hours domestic, 1-4 hours international.
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400% of one-way fare, up to $2,150: replacement delay over 2 hours domestic or 4 hours international.
These are cash amounts, not vouchers or miles. Airlines must offer cash. They often offer vouchers first, which you can decline.
How to Calculate Your Specific Amount
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Find your one-way fare: if you booked round-trip, divide by 2 for the segment being bumped.
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Determine the replacement delay tier: 1-2 hours or 2+ hours domestic.
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Calculate 200% or 400% of the one-way fare.
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Apply the cap: $1,075 or $2,150, whichever tier applies.
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The lesser of the calculated amount and the cap is what you are owed.
Example Calculations
A few worked examples:
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One-way fare $200, replacement delay 1-2 hours domestic: 200% x $200 = $400. Below cap. Owed $400.
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One-way fare $200, replacement delay 4 hours: 400% x $200 = $800. Below cap. Owed $800.
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One-way fare $700, replacement delay 1-2 hours: 200% x $700 = $1,400. Exceeds $1,075 cap. Owed $1,075.
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One-way fare $700, replacement delay 4 hours: 400% x $700 = $2,800. Exceeds $2,150 cap. Owed $2,150.
When the Formula Does Not Apply
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Weight/balance restrictions on smaller aircraft (less than 60 seats): IDB rules do not apply.
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Substitution of smaller aircraft due to safety: IDB rules modified.
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Voluntary bumping: you get whatever was offered, no DOT formula.
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Missed connection due to earlier delay, not overbooking: not IDB.
How to Claim
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Request the written IDB notice at the gate (mandatory under DOT).
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Confirm the replacement flight delay tier.
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Calculate your formula amount.
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Request cash to original payment method.
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File formal claim on the airline's website if not paid at the gate.
Related
Escalation If Airline Refuses
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File DOT complaint at transportation.gov/airconsumer.
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Dispute the flight charge with your credit card.
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Small claims court for amounts over $500.
Reference: DOT bumping rules and formula.
Let TravelStacks Handle It
TravelStacks calculates the exact DOT formula amount and files your claim for $19. Check your case. Full denied boarding pillar at denied boarding compensation guide.