One strategy to avoid losing your seat: Even if your flight is delayed, always show up and check in on time

Have you ever been bumped from a flight? Yes, I volunteered Yes, against my will No, and I'm glad No, but I'd like to View Results

From CNN Correspondent Lori Waffenschmidt

(CNN) -- The Department of Transportation says fewer airline passengers were bumped from flights during the first nine months of this year than in the same period last year. But with more business and leisure travelers taking flight, your chances of being denied a seat may increase.

Airlines say they overbook flights because they expect "no shows." Although they will ask for volunteers to be bumped when there are no seats available, they can bump you whether you agree to it or not.

According to the Department of Transportation, as long as airlines ask for volunteers, "passengers who must be bumped because of a lack of volunteers get cash." DOT says "this system has benefited the many passengers who have taken advantage of the cash and free travel."

Needless to say, some flyers find it frustrating.

"If I buy a ticket, I like to be assured that I'm going to get on the flight on the plane," said one traveler.

"I don't agree with it. I don't think it's ethically right," said another.

Knowing a few strategies could help you avoid being bumped.

First, show up on time. Airlines can bump you if you arrive at the gate past check-in time, which is usually 10 to 20 minutes before the scheduled departure for domestic flights.

If you get to the airport and find that your flight has been delayed, resist the temptation to take your time getting to the gate.

"You have to still check in at the check-in deadline that was originally specified even if the plane is taking off late," said Karen Cure, a spokeswoman for Fodor's Travel Publications.

The more you've paid for your ticket, the more likely you'll make it on board the plane. "Nowadays, they are starting to bump people according to the ticket price," Cure said.

If you've done everything right and you still get bumped, know your rights.

"If they can get you to your final destination within that one- to two-hour period of time, they don't owe you anything. But if they can't, that's where the Department of Transportation regulations kick in," said Chris McGinnis, a business travel consultant for CNN.