General Discussion

Sancho

(9,203 posts)

27. I have to admit that overbooking is a big issue for some airlines....

Mon Apr 10, 2017, 09:00 AM

Apr 2017

it's happened to me (Continental that merged with United) and I was really inconvenienced, so I ended up renting a car and driving all night to get where I had to go. I never flew Continental again and I've never been on United since they merged. You can research it, but some airlines are simply worse about overbooking than others.

If the airlines really wanted to, they could offer large incentives to get others to give up their seats, and also book people on competitor airlines. You can bet that if United had offered $2000 or 4 round-trip tickets or something, that someone else would have taken the deal. Likely it will cost United more for the lawyers now.

It's all about their profit formula, so they get away with things like randomly tossing someone. Think of the cost for patients who have appointments - so it's not just about privilege. I would be sympathetic to an MD who had to get to back, especially if it was my doctor.

Frankly, airlines should not be allowed to overbook. Here are some links with information and a couple of them show typical overbooking ratings. United is often one of the worst.

https://www.fastcompany.com/3027718/the-airlines-with-the-worst-track-records-for-bumping-passengers

http://www.pbs.org/newshour/making-sense/how-delta-masters-the-game-of-overbooking-flights/

http://lifehacker.com/if-your-flight-is-overbooked-dont-volunteer-to-get-bum-1722036179

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Physician removed forcibly from United flight after overbooking--UPDATED [View all] FDRsGhost Apr 2017 OP

Every now and then the privileged class lose their privilege dembotoz Apr 2017 #1

He's a doctor who needed to see patients FDRsGhost Apr 2017 #4

The patient would have gone to the ER HoneyBadger Apr 2017 #9

And if the patient was already hospitalized? FDRsGhost Apr 2017 #11

Then there should be many many doctors in that setting HoneyBadger Apr 2017 #15

True but as someone with a rare disease myself FDRsGhost Apr 2017 #31

Everything is so perfect and ordered in your world isn't it? former9thward Apr 2017 #41

Yes it is HoneyBadger Apr 2017 #46

Talk about privilege. JTFrog Apr 2017 #76

Yup janterry Apr 2017 #365

HoneyBadger deepcover Apr 2017 #166

I do not but would like links HoneyBadger Apr 2017 #197

Not all doctors are equally capable. thesquanderer Apr 2017 #103

We are not machines. Doctors are not interchangeable TXCritter Apr 2017 #159

I see doctors all the time HoneyBadger Apr 2017 #215

You're dead wrong... tallahasseedem Apr 2017 #234

Depends on the patient cab67 Apr 2017 #279

Because you have never needed to see a specific doctor, they are therefore all interchangable? uppityperson Apr 2017 #302

Wow. You are obviously extremely lucky with your health. Ms. Toad Apr 2017 #316

I am sympathetic to your family's rare circumstance and wish for the best outcome HoneyBadger Apr 2017 #336

It is an interesting juggling act. Ms. Toad Apr 2017 #373

This is ridiculous. Ignored. anneboleyn Apr 2017 #379

That seems factual HoneyBadger Apr 2017 #382

Lucky you. My father had to wait several weeks for a surgery even though he was told femmedem Apr 2017 #406

So were any white people knocked unconscious? DK504 Apr 2017 #150

Oh, for Fuck's sake....This sounds a lot more like an employee prefence whathehell Apr 2017 #320

Sounds racial to me and the guy is 69 yrs old - kicking seniors off planes - great womanofthehills Apr 2017 #427

Yeah, to some people everything does.. whathehell Apr 2017 #437

True that, they should pick younger people treestar Apr 2017 #448

Seriously? athena Apr 2017 #98

Given that we are all pushing for single payer HoneyBadger Apr 2017 #124

Are you also against having to yield for ambulances? athena Apr 2017 #179

Yes, yield to ambulances that are on their way to emergencies HoneyBadger Apr 2017 #207

I find this post relevant to top rated specialists HoneyBadger Apr 2017 #243

Why do you assume he works in a hospital? What if he was in private practice with no coverage? synergie Apr 2017 #184

Because Honey Badger knows all BannonsLiver Apr 2017 #217

It was stated by the OP somewhere in this thread, please delete your post HoneyBadger Apr 2017 #223

Passengers said he works in a hospital - and he's one yr short of 70 yrs old womanofthehills Apr 2017 #430

That's what people assume when they hear doctor and patient and older guys synergie Apr 2017 #439

Um that is bullshit Horse with no Name Apr 2017 #213

Are you saying that no other doctor could do what he does? HoneyBadger Apr 2017 #219

There are 2 others Horse with no Name Apr 2017 #280

How does one get worldwide health coverage? HoneyBadger Apr 2017 #381

I don't work with reimbursement so I am Horse with no Name Apr 2017 #410

Are you saying, senior citizens should be kicked off the plane first womanofthehills Apr 2017 #432

It did not have anything to do with age HoneyBadger Apr 2017 #444

Fuck Fascist United Airlines NewRedDawn Apr 2017 #402

Judging from more informative articles, it would not have been a single patient. synergie Apr 2017 #109

And what if those 4 employees were on their way to work flights that carried even more vital doctors HoneyBadger Apr 2017 #127

Even if the gentleman was retired and had no patients waiting for him, synergie Apr 2017 #182

Did United actually attack him? HoneyBadger Apr 2017 #209

That apparently acted on being involved by United. Yes? Lyricalinklines Apr 2017 #249

When you call the police, you are responsible for their actions? HoneyBadger Apr 2017 #254

I see we could be comparing apples and oranges here. Lyricalinklines Apr 2017 #267

Watch the video. United is responsible here, their own incompetence. synergie Apr 2017 #272

Why couldn't United offer cash instead of paltry vouchers? athena Apr 2017 #183

Two recent trips that I took Horse with no Name Apr 2017 #218

Wow. So all you get is a voucher, and beyond that you're on your own. athena Apr 2017 #228

And those vouchers Bettie Apr 2017 #246

Yes. Vouchers only. This was Southwest Horse with no Name Apr 2017 #282

I hear that's why I don't need insurance. Iggo Apr 2017 #231

You have got to be kidding me Sanity Claws Apr 2017 #263

PLEASE tell me that you forgot the sarcasm icon, and that you do not actually support UA's niyad Apr 2017 #344

Yeah, great thinking, honeybadger. Just go to the ER! They will be up on your condition and your anneboleyn Apr 2017 #380

Now the doctor will have to go to the ER - another video face covered with blood womanofthehills Apr 2017 #418

I agree with you on this. Also, asking for volunteers, and forceably removing people doesn't sound still_one Apr 2017 #73

Here's my quick analysis... Adrahil Apr 2017 #91

I am not sure if the lawsuit will fail. Besides the physical harm done to the physician, how did still_one Apr 2017 #101

It won't matter, I'm betting. Adrahil Apr 2017 #169

but physical injury KT2000 Apr 2017 #339

+1 dalton99a Apr 2017 #416

"Terms and conditions matter"...? regnaD kciN Apr 2017 #440

That's interesting. I hope you're right. NT Adrahil Apr 2017 #445

United does this ALL THE TIME! EVERY flight. Grins Apr 2017 #132

I'm sure they do. I'm sure every airline does this. Adrahil Apr 2017 #171

Not exactly correct Suburban Warrior Apr 2017 #180

We shall see. Adrahil Apr 2017 #190

If a crew member told you to jump off a moving plane, would you do it? gyroscope Apr 2017 #403

PLEASE UNDERSTAND!!!!!! Adrahil Apr 2017 #407

It's your third point that I dont' get. Ms. Toad Apr 2017 #321

I have only once.... Adrahil Apr 2017 #411

This is beyond odd.. Cha Apr 2017 #409

They seem to have clarified.... Adrahil Apr 2017 #412

oh jesus i. christ on a trampoline you don't think another doctor has his skills? snooper2 Apr 2017 #82

Yay united! BannonsLiver Apr 2017 #221

It depends. Often doctors work along, especially some specialties. uppityperson Apr 2017 #306

EVERYBODY has a job they need to get to... TheDebbieDee Apr 2017 #308

While I generally agree with your conclusion, it's unclear this is an example of it. CincyDem Apr 2017 #18

Another article states they were up to $800 exboyfil Apr 2017 #30

All kinds of things might be going on. cab67 Apr 2017 #52

They should have offered cash. athena Apr 2017 #53

I just returned from a flight ... frazzled Apr 2017 #100

That's my take. If it was so damn important to get these other 4 people on the plane THEY overbooked Warren DeMontague Apr 2017 #441

I think the word is "voluntold" :) FDRsGhost Apr 2017 #32

Boom - exactamundo. Great word. I'll have to remember that one. thanks. n/t CincyDem Apr 2017 #66

A physician is not "the privileged class". athena Apr 2017 #61

Also, the doctor in this instance is visibly of Asian origin and speaks Tanuki Apr 2017 #95

I believe that's how the "computer" chose him dalton99a Apr 2017 #125

United said that minors and "families" are permitted to stay. They chose an Asian man by himself anneboleyn Apr 2017 #378

Yeah, the blind authoritarianism and Big-Business-Is-Always-Right/blame-the-victim attitude is dalton99a Apr 2017 #394

Just because you're a passenger on a plane Duppers Apr 2017 #102

Are you effing kidding me? crim son Apr 2017 #153

he probably does not believe KT2000 Apr 2017 #431

Posts like this remind me why I leave this site tymorial Apr 2017 #212

Ugly isn't it? BannonsLiver Apr 2017 #237

Alleged is right. grossproffit Apr 2017 #245

I agree with you. That comment does take the cake. grossproffit Apr 2017 #242

I put the person on ignore as every comment lately is troll garbage. It has no place on DU anneboleyn Apr 2017 #383

HE was in economy BannonsLiver Apr 2017 #214

I was going to ignore this comment but just can't matt819 Apr 2017 #257

Doctors travelling (in economy) are now "privileged class"? taught_me_patience Apr 2017 #325

This is my thought, too. janterry Apr 2017 #363

So you have no problem with kicking off a 69 yr man and his wife - seniors I would say womanofthehills Apr 2017 #428

"refused to leave the aircraft voluntarily" tanyev Apr 2017 #2

He's also Asian. This won't bode well for United. FDRsGhost Apr 2017 #6

Bumped alanbudda Apr 2017 #3

lol right? FDRsGhost Apr 2017 #8

I take my work commitments seriously, but that's just me I guess. Lucky Luciano Apr 2017 #48

Wow, U R mad seriouz... ExciteBike66 Apr 2017 #62

why you posting at work? snooper2 Apr 2017 #85

Have to wait for my code to run. Lucky Luciano Apr 2017 #97

SURE snooper2 Apr 2017 #112

LOL - some truth to that! Lucky Luciano Apr 2017 #129

Nothing wrong with taking a mental health day. cwydro Apr 2017 #134

Totally ok. Lucky Luciano Apr 2017 #148

Go clean the lunch room counter top. Empty junk from fridge. Do it now. Hassin Bin Sober Apr 2017 #194

"empty junk from fridge." in most places that whistler162 Apr 2017 #413

A doctor or lawyer is no more important or less important than anyone else democratisphere Apr 2017 #5

A doctor most certainly is, sorry FDRsGhost Apr 2017 #7

"Most certainly?" Not necessarily. Orrex Apr 2017 #21

I've seen a few things on twitter FDRsGhost Apr 2017 #35

Give me a break. Life or death.. and the guy has to fly somewhere to be there tomorrow. pangaia Apr 2017 #33

I do. FDRsGhost Apr 2017 #40

Airlines generally seem to have a good deal of latitude... Orrex Apr 2017 #54

. jberryhill Apr 2017 #106

The hit to their image comes every time the skytrax ratings come out BannonsLiver Apr 2017 #255

All of that notwithstanding... Orrex Apr 2017 #261

My neighbour is having open heart surgery sometime on the weekend OnlinePoker Apr 2017 #63

What if the specialist was booked on the other flight which needed the crew? jberryhill Apr 2017 #110

THEN UNITED SHOULDNT OVERBOOK THE FUCKING PLANE. THAT IS THE ANSWER. FULL STOP. anneboleyn Apr 2017 #384

The flight was not overbooked jberryhill Apr 2017 #421

Well, you have a point. pangaia Apr 2017 #131

Even blood donations, banked blood, comes into play here. Ilsa Apr 2017 #392

A doctor and a lawyer are very different things for goodness sake Kentonio Apr 2017 #29

Yeah you'd want to be careful not to bump the lawyer, they'd be more likely to sue. n/t PoliticAverse Apr 2017 #276

Lawyers never sue for fees treestar Apr 2017 #451

Yeah, unless you're the one that HAS to see the doctor... LakeArenal Apr 2017 #34

How long have you been with United? BannonsLiver Apr 2017 #251

If a lawyer has a trial tomorrow treestar Apr 2017 #270

I never fly in the day before a court appearance jberryhill Apr 2017 #423

The dark-skinned male immigrant somehow drew the short straw BeyondGeography Apr 2017 #10

But he was randomly selected by computer dalton99a Apr 2017 #19

United already said they leave families and minors alone. That isn't "random" anymore. anneboleyn Apr 2017 #385

He was not alone - his wife was kicked off with him womanofthehills Apr 2017 #420

The airlines used to make it attractive to give up your seat Hokie Apr 2017 #12

They offered $400 at first and then $800 before randomly choosing passengers. n/t tammywammy Apr 2017 #24

Free Market which the airlines love using to their advantage rpannier Apr 2017 #43

Free market says that they should have kept increasing the amount lapfog_1 Apr 2017 #65

This is the correct answer. kcr Apr 2017 #165

The doctor is going to see big bucks on this one. mikeysnot Apr 2017 #195

Yes and no FBaggins Apr 2017 #374

That's what I think. Ilsa Apr 2017 #393

That's $400 or $800 in vouchers, not cash. athena Apr 2017 #67

Yeah vouchers vs cash makes a big difference Hokie Apr 2017 #79

Exactly. Fuck those puny vouchers. That hardly makes up for the cost of missing a flight. SunSeeker Apr 2017 #81

Why not a first class ticket to the destination of the person's choice? CrispyQ Apr 2017 #156

Of all the people to remove by force DFW Apr 2017 #13

Count me among the well traveled JustAnotherGen Apr 2017 #16

I live in Korea rpannier Apr 2017 #47

I fly united a lot... cab67 Apr 2017 #56

I don't fly anymore, but for a couple decades I did. ALWAYS a foreign airline. Loved Lufthansa! WinkyDink Apr 2017 #69

I live where their headquarters and hub are .I never take United despite thier discounted hub prices lunasun Apr 2017 #25

I have a "3 state rule" where if the distance I'm traveling is within lapfog_1 Apr 2017 #86

I'm with you. If I can reach my destination in 24 hours or less, I drive. Coventina Apr 2017 #116

13 or 14 hours of driving and it starts to be lapfog_1 Apr 2017 #137

I just read this post to my wife MurrayDelph Apr 2017 #202

I try never to drive. DFW Apr 2017 #343

I would love to take a train... lapfog_1 Apr 2017 #438

In Europe, it's really the only option for most. DFW Apr 2017 #446

This is crazy. Don't they resolve overbooking before boarding? They apologize for overbooking but Justice Apr 2017 #14

They dragged him off the plane, injured him, and put him back on. dalton99a Apr 2017 #20

Oh he was put back on? FDRsGhost Apr 2017 #36

Yes. dalton99a Apr 2017 #42

Wow I smell lawsuit FDRsGhost Apr 2017 #45

Reports say he ran back on - not was put back on - he is 69 yrs old & was with his wife womanofthehills Apr 2017 #426

Is he on the no fly list now? HoneyBadger Apr 2017 #17

Maybe he was bumped for wearing leggings. Orrex Apr 2017 #22

Wow. United is horrible!!! I hope they get sued. People should not be treated like this. AgadorSparticus Apr 2017 #23

OR, United jehop61 Apr 2017 #26

Exactly. athena Apr 2017 #70

If the flight was overbooked, no non-revs... 3catwoman3 Apr 2017 #84

"Why don't they "bump" one of their own employees" jberryhill Apr 2017 #92

understood... cab67 Apr 2017 #113

There was severe weather on Thursday, and schedule problems have a ripple effect jberryhill Apr 2017 #120

I'll bet the lawsuits will be more than sending their employees by private jet n/t n2doc Apr 2017 #347

EXACTLY. This incident disgusts me. And why the hell were the police involved? Beyond Orwell. anneboleyn Apr 2017 #386

I have to admit that overbooking is a big issue for some airlines.... Sancho Apr 2017 #27

That first article is an eye-opener. athena Apr 2017 #74

Delta's approach is a pretty sensible way of doing things. geek tragedy Apr 2017 #172

Delta has horrible customer service athena Apr 2017 #285

Delta isn't great, but it's better than United. geek tragedy Apr 2017 #289

those are really interesting--thanks! n/t renate Apr 2017 #284

one would think that a flight would want to keep a doctor on... Javaman Apr 2017 #28

Exactly! Duppers Apr 2017 #105

"Is there a Doctor in the house?" 90-percent Apr 2017 #128

But But.... they apologized..... LakeArenal Apr 2017 #37

Let United know how you feel about this bullshit Foamfollower Apr 2017 #38

When I was growing up we used to play musical chairs in grade school ToxMarz Apr 2017 #39

It wasn't even for paying passengers, it was for a flight crew for a flight the next day. tammywammy Apr 2017 #50

Really? That's just stupid Hokie Apr 2017 #64

If that flight was the next day, there is absolutely no excuse. They could have rented a car. Hassin Bin Sober Apr 2017 #205

I used to take voluntary bumps all the time. MineralMan Apr 2017 #44

Unless you're dragged off XD FDRsGhost Apr 2017 #49

yes people have to understand they are not handing you the $$ amount negotiated and comes with many lunasun Apr 2017 #247

It used to be a great deal. MineralMan Apr 2017 #269

You weren't working the system. This is what THEY wanted. AgadorSparticus Apr 2017 #424

Perhaps not, but it let me visit many places at a time when MineralMan Apr 2017 #449

If the plane was full - why did they have to remove anyone? jpak Apr 2017 #51

Usually, they do. cab67 Apr 2017 #57

Only fly United when I have to.. only fly at all when I have to. mountain grammy Apr 2017 #55

I gave up flying. BeekeeperInVermont Apr 2017 #68

The price I pay to visit grandkids. mountain grammy Apr 2017 #72

So much for their old jingle SCVDem Apr 2017 #58

the skies are friendly, but the runway is down right hostile nt geek tragedy Apr 2017 #163

Can someone explain the rationale behind doing this? cab67 Apr 2017 #59

Oversells and no-shows/cancels are intended to cancel each other out. geek tragedy Apr 2017 #227

For what it's worth, cab67 Apr 2017 #274

I'll take a voluntary bump if I don't have anywhere to be that day crazycatlady Apr 2017 #60

Really? athena Apr 2017 #273

They have computer system that tells how many seats are on that particular turbinetree Apr 2017 #71

This is fucking disgraceful. Sculpin Beauregard Apr 2017 #75

Indeed it is. I'm embarrassed for my country. SunSeeker Apr 2017 #89

Exactly eom LittleGirl Apr 2017 #123

If he's already on the plane, why pull him off? Victor_c3 Apr 2017 #77

Someone said it was to get another crew to Lousiville for another flight Hokie Apr 2017 #80

Just got finished checking my twitter... this has blown up bigly OKNancy Apr 2017 #78

Did they then give the seat to someone not yet boarded?!? HAB911 Apr 2017 #83

he was kicked off for United empolyees OKNancy Apr 2017 #88

WHO got the seat?! HAB911 Apr 2017 #87

An airline employee Victor_c3 Apr 2017 #90

United is now on my shitlist HAB911 Apr 2017 #93

Mine too. Duppers Apr 2017 #107

I think this is the best source to read ( so far) OKNancy Apr 2017 #94

Are you advocating the treatment a customer received based on practiced business action? Lyricalinklines Apr 2017 #140

This is horrifying. It is literally Nazi behavior. yardwork Apr 2017 #366

Hopefully he'll be able to retire after the lawsuit malaise Apr 2017 #96

I hope so HAB911 Apr 2017 #99

For real. Out of all the choices United had, they chose the worst and most degrading way suffragette Apr 2017 #250

We peons are treated worse than cattle malaise Apr 2017 #360

Yup, cash cows. They made him bleed rather than offer more financial incentive for volunteers suffragette Apr 2017 #388

He will either own a hospital or an airline after this. nikibatts Apr 2017 #104

They used to let the passengers deal with this on their own jberryhill Apr 2017 #108

With this PR, UA may never have to overbook again, hopefully HAB911 Apr 2017 #111

Pigs will be pigs nt lillypaddle Apr 2017 #114

Apparently he and his wife were bumped so United personnel could board the flight. SunSeeker Apr 2017 #115

WTF? Responders are focusing on the airlines and not the unjust overuse of physical force? Lyricalinklines Apr 2017 #117

+1 dalton99a Apr 2017 #119

There are posts responding to that aspect of it, but yes. That is the part of the story kcr Apr 2017 #135

Reward? Lyricalinklines Apr 2017 #145

I'm sorry, forgive me for using the wrong word. kcr Apr 2017 #158

Absolutely, the physical mistreatment was my point. Lyricalinklines Apr 2017 #181

What I don't understand about this story... brooklynite Apr 2017 #118

Flight crew needed at the other end jberryhill Apr 2017 #121

And that flight could have been carrying organs for transplant, many vital doctors, children in need HoneyBadger Apr 2017 #133

. jberryhill Apr 2017 #136

seriously? Lyricalinklines Apr 2017 #142

What a ridiculous statement jberryhill Apr 2017 #147

interesting to me Lyricalinklines Apr 2017 #151

Again what an absurd statement jberryhill Apr 2017 #164

I see you clarify in your second response ... Lyricalinklines Apr 2017 #200

Why couldn't the crew be driven by bus or limousine at United's expense? athena Apr 2017 #198

Because of FAA rest requirements jberryhill Apr 2017 #299

The crew that needed to be on this flight as passengers. Why couldn't they be driven by car vs plane uppityperson Apr 2017 #327

Is that really a serious question? jberryhill Apr 2017 #351

Yes, that was a serious question. Thank you for answering. Did this plane land and they get to bed uppityperson Apr 2017 #358

You don't seem to understand the answer jberryhill Apr 2017 #361

That's what I've seen on numerous occasions. dalton99a Apr 2017 #122

First come, first served Lyricalinklines Apr 2017 #126

Federal law states: (14 C.F.R. 91.11, 121.580, 135.120.) discntnt_irny_srcsm Apr 2017 #130

here are united's rules OKNancy Apr 2017 #146

AFAIK the flight wasn't oversold discntnt_irny_srcsm Apr 2017 #376

You've pointed out the federal law, but it's being misused too my thinking Lyricalinklines Apr 2017 #149

My understanding is that the flight was not oversold discntnt_irny_srcsm Apr 2017 #173

Not being oversold would account for seated passengers... Lyricalinklines Apr 2017 #240

The video I saw of the removal included... discntnt_irny_srcsm Apr 2017 #264

" I do hope this man is prosecuted. " geek tragedy Apr 2017 #157

?? puzzling response... discntnt_irny_srcsm Apr 2017 #174

in my country, people are not conditioned to be obedient to incompetent geek tragedy Apr 2017 #177

re: "Maybe the jackboots in question thought this was a Trump rally." discntnt_irny_srcsm Apr 2017 #256

the airline resorted to violence rather than boosting their anemic offer of $800 vouchers geek tragedy Apr 2017 #262

I believe (correct me if I'm wrong) the airline resorted to the police discntnt_irny_srcsm Apr 2017 #271

$800 voucher to have to fly United again not such a value. geek tragedy Apr 2017 #278

I'm not trying to say you're wrong, I just understand the position of the aircraft and gate crew discntnt_irny_srcsm Apr 2017 #296

was it their call to limit the offer to $800 vouchers instead of larger, cash offers? geek tragedy Apr 2017 #300

I could be wrong; it is my understanding that cash and checks are not available at the gate discntnt_irny_srcsm Apr 2017 #310

it'll also be interesting to see exactly what force was applied to the passenger geek tragedy Apr 2017 #330

Agreed n/t discntnt_irny_srcsm Apr 2017 #357

Why couldn't United get a rental car to transport its employees then? athena Apr 2017 #203

My understanding is that weather conditions... discntnt_irny_srcsm Apr 2017 #291

You hope the doctor who just got the shit kicked out of him is prosecuted? Kentonio Apr 2017 #253

It's rather clear to me that, when I travel... discntnt_irny_srcsm Apr 2017 #303

Yes, the police removed him from the plane Kentonio Apr 2017 #345

It wouldn't be the first time that... discntnt_irny_srcsm Apr 2017 #356

And "interfere" seems to be interpreted rather loosely these days. n/t PoliticAverse Apr 2017 #297

Perhaps this is an under reviewed area of law discntnt_irny_srcsm Apr 2017 #314

"Finally, the 300 mile trip is about 5 hours by car. Get a rental and drive." eShirl Apr 2017 #442

I suggest that the public tell this to United discntnt_irny_srcsm Apr 2017 #443

Hope someone sue United for all the compensation that they offer their CEO, and more question everything Apr 2017 #138

Some of you need to read the terms and agreements dagnuguy Apr 2017 #139

he was already on the flight OKNancy Apr 2017 #141

there is a reason why competent airlines don't board passengers until they have all geek tragedy Apr 2017 #161

Where does it say you will be forcibly dragged off BannonsLiver Apr 2017 #226

The same place it says if you are behaving erratically or threatening other passengers... randome Apr 2017 #287

Cool story, but I'm still waiting BannonsLiver Apr 2017 #288

Nope. As has already been pointed out, the man was not beaten. randome Apr 2017 #298

What's the protocol/etiquette for being forcibly dragged out of your seat BannonsLiver Apr 2017 #309

As was already pointed out by some, he threw a tantrum. randome Apr 2017 #318

But what's the protocol? BannonsLiver Apr 2017 #329

I would assume the police are authorized to use force... randome Apr 2017 #454

Was that "tantrum" before the concussion? Or the knocked out teeth? Or the broken nose? uppityperson Apr 2017 #452

I realize that listing all his injuries lends a certain evil intent to your position. randome Apr 2017 #453

there is no protocol for bora13 Apr 2017 #372

United didn't follow their own regulations OKNancy Apr 2017 #143

Where does it say that he was knocked unconscious? DesertRat Apr 2017 #144

I find this story highly suspicious. Airlines don't allow people onto the aircraft in advance of... George II Apr 2017 #152

that's how they're supposed to do things. United decided to do things a little different this time, geek tragedy Apr 2017 #162

I still find this suspicious. The flight was due to leave at 5:41 PM, there was another one.... George II Apr 2017 #176

United could have rented a van for its employees and driven them there. geek tragedy Apr 2017 #178

Not and comply with rest requirements jberryhill Apr 2017 #301

Pretty sure it's a good idea for doctors to get rest before treating patients too. geek tragedy Apr 2017 #304

What happened was utterly stupid jberryhill Apr 2017 #305

that entire planeload of people wasn't worth more than $3200 (in travel vouchers) geek tragedy Apr 2017 #315

There are no such requirements for doctors jberryhill Apr 2017 #362

++++++++++ uppityperson Apr 2017 #312

Here's an idea, seat people AFTER overbooking issues have been resolved. geek tragedy Apr 2017 #154

These are the people that I like being given preference on flights that I'm on NCjack Apr 2017 #155

why did he act like a 2year old DarleenMB Apr 2017 #160

If he stepped out of the plane, he already lost his seat - and most likely any right to redress. haele Apr 2017 #210

Tazed? It explains suddden screams and going limp mainer Apr 2017 #222

My aren't you a compassionate one BannonsLiver Apr 2017 #244

He did explain before the thugs came on to drag him off. uppityperson Apr 2017 #313

Flights were routinely overbooked in the mid-Seventies (forget why). maddiemom Apr 2017 #167

Guess I should have read further to get my answer. maddiemom Apr 2017 #185

What if Bayard Apr 2017 #168

What if there was a transplant doctor on the other plane that needed the crew? jberryhill Apr 2017 #170

Which is why (1) competent airlines resolve overbooking before boarding; (2) competent airlines geek tragedy Apr 2017 #175

You could even pose the question "What if he wasn't a doctor?" randome Apr 2017 #204

So let's assume, with zero evidence, that the guy is lying. athena Apr 2017 #208

'Ponder', I said. There is so much wrong with this thread. randome Apr 2017 #233

You seem very biased in favor of United. athena Apr 2017 #248

There was no 'immediate' about calling in the police. randome Apr 2017 #258

No United was not 'right' to remove people from a flight Kentonio Apr 2017 #260

We don't know much beyond the videos, which are pretty damning, no doubt about it. randome Apr 2017 #277

Setting aside for a moment the rights and wrongs of this particular situation.. Kentonio Apr 2017 #340

Agree, there were probably other avenues to use before resorting to force. randome Apr 2017 #349

Forget about the guy being a physician. What if it was you or your family member? dalton99a Apr 2017 #191

It sucks to get bumped but refusing to get off the plane is never going to work Alea Apr 2017 #186

his 'stupid prize' is going to involve a lawsuit against the airline geek tragedy Apr 2017 #241

Before we jump on the passenger, let's remember why airlines overbook CajunBlazer Apr 2017 #187

Bingo. dalton99a Apr 2017 #192

he may be able to sue them but he has no "right" to refuse Alea Apr 2017 #196

He had a right to not be beaten up. geek tragedy Apr 2017 #201

I watched the video and he wasn't beaten up Alea Apr 2017 #232

they chose to drag his ass off the flight instead of increasing the compensation geek tragedy Apr 2017 #239

Eh. Increasing the compensation means more would wait next time for a better deal. randome Apr 2017 #265

Delta has a much smarter way of doing things. They ask people at check in how much they'd take to be geek tragedy Apr 2017 #275

I need to know why the staff were in such a hurry. Maybe another crew suddenly took sick? randome Apr 2017 #283

My comment has been that United was both stupid and evil, but mostly stupid, in this. geek tragedy Apr 2017 #286

They have a P.R. nightmare on their hands now. randome Apr 2017 #290

As a lawyer, I can recognize that law is the law and airplanes are no place to disregard the law geek tragedy Apr 2017 #293

It's not a law that allows this CajunBlazer Apr 2017 #400

That explains your very small text... LanternWaste Apr 2017 #294

What's the last line you can read clearly? randome Apr 2017 #311

Let me ask you this ... CajunBlazer Apr 2017 #398

These things are rarely as simple as they seem. randome Apr 2017 #408

I have only one question? CajunBlazer Apr 2017 #414

The flight was not overbooked. randome Apr 2017 #447

How did his face get all bloody? uppityperson Apr 2017 #319

It looks like he hit the opposite row of seats once they pulled him into the aisle. randome Apr 2017 #323

I guess it depends on what the definition of "is" is. Or "beaten". uppityperson Apr 2017 #326

Bullshit CajunBlazer Apr 2017 #397

So far, they're digging in their heels. athena Apr 2017 #417

Yea, but it isn't a law that requires a passanger to disimbark on notification CajunBlazer Apr 2017 #396

involuntary bumping with a 2+ hour delay means paying 4 times the face value of a one-way ticket. geek tragedy Apr 2017 #199

They're not offering cash. athena Apr 2017 #216

That figure about failure to claim compensation is shocking but maybe geek tragedy Apr 2017 #224

I figure they saved a little money and lost millions in the process CajunBlazer Apr 2017 #401

It's mentality. geek tragedy Apr 2017 #404

Yep, and a mentality of greed sometimes costs companies a ton of money CajunBlazer Apr 2017 #415

Time to read the Contract of Carriage for the flight HoneyBadger Apr 2017 #371

Trump new Amerika at its best Kablooie Apr 2017 #188

The "computer" selected people who didn't look like well-dressed white lawyers dalton99a Apr 2017 #193

He was Chinese HoneyBadger Apr 2017 #391

My, times have changed. mwooldri Apr 2017 #189

Prediction: Lawsuit! ananda Apr 2017 #206

Airlines intentionally overbook for profit Bradical79 Apr 2017 #211

I agree with you. athena Apr 2017 #225

I hope the passenger sues United chia Apr 2017 #220

I do too. Nothing justifies this. Sculpin Beauregard Apr 2017 #236

Looks like we've got a few United employees spinning hard in this thread BannonsLiver Apr 2017 #229

Or Russian spies, perhaps? athena Apr 2017 #252

BOYCOTT! Friendly skies, my ass Auggie Apr 2017 #230

FUCK UNITED! This is not how you treat people! PERIOD! 50 Shades Of Blue Apr 2017 #235

Totally Trumpian C_U_L8R Apr 2017 #238

Fly United, because... Foamfollower Apr 2017 #259

lol (and I mean I literally did LOL at your post) renate Apr 2017 #292

PROTIP The Big Ragu Apr 2017 #266

A better idea Gymbo Apr 2017 #268

I hope you're suggesting that United drive its people to the destination, athena Apr 2017 #281

Looks like United bora13 Apr 2017 #295

I kind of doubt a physician would lead off with "I have people to see." randome Apr 2017 #307

Your shifting of blame from the corporation to the victim is noted ProfessorPlum Apr 2017 #324

They were police giving an order to a passenger. randome Apr 2017 #328

Jesus, what are you, United's PR person? ProfessorPlum Apr 2017 #331

+1 BannonsLiver Apr 2017 #334

Who's fighting? How should the police remove someone who refused their order? randome Apr 2017 #335

does the passenger appear conscious to you as he's being dragged from the plane? geek tragedy Apr 2017 #341

If they knocked him out, it was absolutely excessive force. randome Apr 2017 #342

that's something a jury will certainly be able to consider. geek tragedy Apr 2017 #353

Oh. Good question. You can bet that such 'niceties' as federal regulations won't last long... randome Apr 2017 #364

Indeed, the police just "do what they're told" by their corporate masters ProfessorPlum Apr 2017 #346

One set of passengers was going to lose, regardless jberryhill Apr 2017 #355

A Catch-22 situation. randome Apr 2017 #368

from the first video it looked like he hit his head on the armrest across the aisle 0rganism Apr 2017 #354

I won't withdraw any statement. I will admit to being wrong, though. randome Apr 2017 #367

The guy is a doctor, as is his wife. nt EleanorR Apr 2017 #450

K&R bdamomma Apr 2017 #317

Being knocked unconscious is no minor thing. It can cause long term problems. tblue37 Apr 2017 #322

No matter what way you look at it. duncang Apr 2017 #332

Aren't we missing the fact that McConnells wife is sec of transportation bronxiteforever Apr 2017 #333

Her response will be similar to the many pro authoritarian responses in this thread BannonsLiver Apr 2017 #338

Ok, I'm done with DU Idoru Apr 2017 #337

We'll try to struggle on without you. Orrex Apr 2017 #348

Good luck with that Idoru Apr 2017 #350

There are only a few doing that. Most are rightfully appalled uppityperson Apr 2017 #387

Don't leave. athena Apr 2017 #429

$400, $800 is not very much for tickets these days...that doesnt AgadorSparticus Apr 2017 #352

Clearly no one should be treated like that. But it's not like doctors don't overbook their office Hoyt Apr 2017 #359

Do they then randomly choose patients, tell them to leave, bloody their faces and drag them out if uppityperson Apr 2017 #389

No, but they do leave you sitting there sick for hours. Hoyt Apr 2017 #399

Supposedly not United metal HoneyBadger Apr 2017 #369

Prob nothing to do with Republican party HoneyBadger Apr 2017 #370

Some of the responses to this post represent the worst of DU. SaschaHM Apr 2017 #375

The racist bigoted vitriol toward the Asian doc in these threads is deplorable. dalton99a Apr 2017 #419

Ya. They out themselves every now and then. Been watching it for over thirteen years here. miyazaki Apr 2017 #425

It makes no difference who he was Heartstrings Apr 2017 #377

+++++++ uppityperson Apr 2017 #390

I hope this man ... flying-skeleton Apr 2017 #395

An ex United employee responds (from viewfromthewing website) Kablooie Apr 2017 #405

No, United is not normal. dalton99a Apr 2017 #422

I have a FB friend defending United caraher Apr 2017 #433

Yep. Be a good serf - obey our corporate overlords dalton99a Apr 2017 #434

First of all, athena Apr 2017 #435

Rules are a terrible thing to waste radical noodle Apr 2017 #436