Following a tumultuous week for United Airlines and an enlightening one for air travelers, travAlliancemedia president and CEO Mark Murphy appeared on The Rachael Ray Show Friday to provide fliers with some helpful tips to make flying less stressful.
"Some people are going to get bumped," said Murphy. "The first thing they are going to ask you is if you want to volunteer to be bumped and then they'll try to get you $500 in vouchers, not cash, and then they'll keep going up. In some cases, you'll get to $800."
Murphy noted that there's a difference between being voluntarily and involuntarily bumped that passengers should know about.
"If you get bumped and you're delayed between one and two hours involuntarily you're entitled to cash up to $650," he added.
There are also some easy things air travelers can do prior to getting to the airport to ensure their luggage won't be lost forever.
"Put your name and phone number on the inside," said Murphy. "If they lose that barcode from the airline they don't know who you are."
"They're not responsible for things like jewelry, money, heirlooms, artwork and collectibles."
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Knowing when to fly is also important. "Business travelers are going out on Mondays and coming back on Fridays. Those are the most expensive and busiest days to travel," said Murphy, pointing out that travelers will also want to fly before 8 a.m. and after 8 p.m. to further reduce the potential for headaches.
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