What does the term "Bump" mean in aviation?

The term "Bump" in aviation specifically refers to the procedure of removing a passenger from a flight due to issues such as weight and balance constraints or overselling of tickets. When an airline sells more tickets than available seats on a flight, it may need to "bump" certain passengers to accommodate others, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and flight safety protocols.

This process is common in the aviation industry, especially during peak travel seasons when flights may be overbooked. Passengers who are bumped may be offered compensation, such as travel vouchers, a seat on a later flight, or other incentives to minimize inconvenience.

While upgrading a passenger to first class, changing a flight route, and delaying a flight due to weather conditions are all terms and actions associated with airline operations, they do not relate to the specific situation of passengers being removed from a flight for the reasons associated with a "bump." Thus, the definition and context of "bump" clearly align with the criteria when addressing passenger removal related to overselling or balancing.