Flight Cancellations or Delays: What to Do
Don't sweat it, even though countless travelers worry about reaching their destinations on time (no matter how shy their lost luggage may be), it's understandable. With millions of people flying daily during the holiday season, it's natural to feel anxious. But fear not, here are some steps to navigate this complex and frustrating system whenever your flight is delayed or canceled.
Check the Weather Forecast
Before a famous storm like the bomb cyclone in December 2022, many U.S. airlines offered passengers the opportunity to switch their flights for free. Going.com's founder, Scott Keyes, recommends taking advantage of such exceptions when you suspect unfavorable weather is coming. Jump on the bandwagon early to secure the best available seats and flights.
Avoid Sticking at the Airport
Though it might be annoying to learn that your flight is delayed or even canceled, it's better to find out comfortably from your home or hotel room and make new arrangements instead of waiting at the airport. "Check your flight status before heading to the airport," advised Case. "Most updates don't happen in the last minute. Save time while driving to the airport."
Consider signing up for airline's text notifications for real-time updates. Downloading your mobile carrier's app will also help. You can even search for your flight details directly in Google to get updates. This can help friends or family members waiting for you at the airport. Research FlightAware to follow larger flight trends nationwide.
When You're Already at the Airport
Sometimes, you might arrive at the airport only to face delays or cancelations. What then?
Avoid queuing in long lines as it could be slow and frustrating. Approach the airline's counter with urgency, and be prepared for multitasking while waiting in line. "Whoever reaches first gains an advantage. Whoever gets there first speaks first. Being close to the counter is beneficial," said Case.
Consider contacting your mobile carrier while you wait, and it can be faster depending on your position in the queue. For domestic calls, international call centers can often be quicker. Case recommends using Delta's Canadian helpline if the agent might provide faster service.
Refer to American Airline's self-service kiosks. "Scan your boarding pass or enter your passenger profile ID to display updated itinerary details and even change flights with a new boarding pass," Travel Lens suggested.
Use Social Media to Your Advantage
Not all customer service teams are as helpful as they should be, and direct communication can be challenging. Leverage social media platforms to reach out to the airline. Airlines value their social media reputation and are more responsive on Twitter. "Remember to be polite and patient as this will be to your advantage," said CNN Travel in an email.
Mindset and research are crucial
Regardless of whether you booked with a travel agent or independently, your approach plays a significant role in how well you handle the situation.
Have a Positive Attitude
"Honey attracts more bees than vinegar," noted Case. "Consider the perspective of the airline agent. Since the pandemic, they've dealt with angry passengers. Agents are best equipped to help you if you approach them with respect."
Be cooperative when negotiating new terms with your agent. Do your research beforehand to offer alternative options, which will speed up the process.
If you booked through online travel agencies like Expedia, managing cancellations and changes will involve contacting them directly.
Be Proactive with Booking:
Book directly with airlines when possible to avoid navigating multiple policies during cancellations or delays. Expedia and other third-party websites may add layers of complexity.
Seek Help from Other Airlines
If your flight is canceled for reasons other than weather, chances are, a refund will be provided. Airlines often try to redirect passengers to other airlines first. CNN Travel quoted CheapAir.com's CEO, Jeff Klee, recommending passengers to directly contact the airline's customer support hotline instead of waiting in long lines for gate agents.
Several airlines may collaborate in such scenarios, allowing you to take a flight with another carrier instead.
Stranded Overnight
What if your backup flight isn't until the next day, and you're not in your home town?
"Ask the airline to book you a hotel or provide a hotel voucher," suggested Case. However, this may not be guaranteed. It depends on the circumstances and whether the disruption is weather-related or not.
Many airlines offer hotel vouchers or accommodations under certain conditions. The U.S. Department of Transportation has a dashboard to track airline compliance with these commitments. The available amenities and support vary per airline and specific circumstances.
Delta, for example, offers hotel vouchers in some situations when delays occur between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
Credit cards with travel protection can be a lifesaver.
"Many credit cards offer travel insurance, such as reimbursement for unexpected costs, when a flight is canceled or delayed," said Smith of Going.com. "Check your credit card's travel insurance policy to see what benefits you qualify for."
If your flight is delayed but not canceled, weigh up the pros and cons of waiting at the airport versus returning to your hotel. Depending on your personal situation, staying at the airport could be more convenient than making back and forth trips.
Bonus Tips
- Use Airport Lounges: Lounges offer a comfortable place to charge your phone, relax, and rest during delays.
- Stay Patient and Safe: If extreme weather conditions affect flight schedules, it may be safer to wait at the airport rather than attempting to travel by car. Despite the frustration, it's better to arrive late than never.
- Travel Insurance and Receipts: Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself against unforeseen circumstances. Keep all of your flight-related receipts as you may use them to claim reimbursement from the airline.
What are your flight cancellation and delay rights in the US?
Travelers in the US have certain rights when it comes to flight cancellations or delays. These rights include:
- Notice of the Cancellation or Delay: Airlines must notify you about cancellations or significant delays as soon as possible. This can be via text, email, or phone.
- Compensation for Delays: If your flight is significantly delayed, you may be entitled to compensation. The exact amount varies, but it can compensate for food, accommodation, and other expenses.
- Reimbursement or Rerouting: If your flight is canceled completely, either reimbursement or rerouting to your destination is your right.
- Assistance During Delays: Airlines are required to provide assistance during delays, such as food, accommodation, and transportation if necessary.
These rights are regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation, and specific circumstances and airline policies may apply.
Resources
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Flight cancellations and delays are frustrating but unavoidable during vacation travel. However, armed with this knowledge, you can navigate the complex system with relative ease. By understanding your rights, taking proactive measures, and staying patient, you can minimize inconvenience and take advantage of available resources. With these guidelines, you can arrive at your destination without additional stress.
