David, I agree with you mostly.... but there are nuances to this that have not and now will not become easily digested sound bites now that the PR damage is one.  How did United mess up their staffing plans?  These crew were being rushed to replace other crew unable to fly under hours of service laws because their previous flights were delayed by weather issues.  That's an unforeseen operational requirement, unlike Toronto's TTC which I understand does have reserve drivers on duty playing cards until or if needed, airlines do not.  Ticket terms of service cover bumping of passengers for operational needs.  Where the breakdown occurred here, Republic's gate attendants  were negligent and botched the boarding  not taking into account four non-revenue must-fly passengers had dibs on seat inventory.  Three passengers were bought off to make room, not four and this person was next in line - chosen by the reservation system, by passenger profile and not randomly as United is spinning it.