While volunteering to give up your seat might seem like a good deal, not every situation works (0) OUT so smoothly. If too few people step forward, airlines may have to bump passengers against their will. Knowing how to minimize your chances of being bumped can save you a lot of stress — and a lot of time. They offer no guarantees 1 the next suitable flight will be 2 the next hour, or even the next day. If there are not 3 volunteers, airlines take the next step — involuntary bumping. 4 avoid this situation, it is important to be at the airport well 5 of your scheduled flight time: the early bird gets the worm — and the aeroplane seat. Allow 6 of time to get to the airport. Be aware of your carrier's check-in requirements 7 they vary from airline to airline. Often, the last passenger 8 the gate and checked in is the prime candidate to be bumped.