One issue is that the $800 that keeps getting quoted as the offered compensation was not cash. It was $800 in vouchers for more United flights that have redemp

One issue is that the $800 that keeps getting quoted as the offered compensation was not cash. It was $800 in vouchers for more United flights that have redemption restrictions and a 1-year time limit. I guess it's worth something to some people, but it's really easy to see why no one chomped at the bit. United might have gotten someone to volunteer if it was just $500 of real cash.