Only two actual "rights" are mandated by the federal government at this time:

1. If you're bumped off a flight because it's overbooked (the airline sold tickets to more travelers than the number of seats available), the airline has leeway to get you to your destination within an hour of the appointed time without penalty. Otherwise, the airlines owes you either the value of your ticket, (up to $200), or double the value of your ticket, (up to $400), depending on how late you arrive and in addition to honoring your original ticket.

2. If your baggage is lost or damaged, the airline is liable to pay compensation up to $2,500 on domestic flights--$635 for international flights. Payment is based on depreciated value, not replacement value, and does not apply to fragile items, currency, and valuable papers. To protect yourself, pack all valuables in your carry on luggage.

These rights are outlined in two pamphlets, Facts and Advice for Airline Passengers by The Aviation Consumer Action Project. It is well worth its $5 cost, and can be ordered from ACAP at Box 19029, Washington, D.C. 20036, or online at www.acap1971.org.

The second pamphlet, Air Travelers: Tell It to the Judge is a more fascinating publication, describing the basics of making small claims suits against airlines, should they stonewall a valid claim. This publication has been around since 1994, and can be printed from the Web at: http://airconsumer.ost.dot.gov/. Don't miss this site.

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