Amid staffing shortages, unpredictable weather, and the ongoing impact of the coronavirus, flights may experience last-minute changes. Here’s essential information for travellers in case their flight is affected.
Flights may face delays or cancellations due to various reasons, including weather conditions, maintenance issues, or staffing challenges. If you find yourself stranded at an airport due to a cancelled or delayed flight, here are key points to keep in mind.
If feasible, it’s advisable to book directly through the airline rather than using online travel agencies. Booking directly with the airline can simplify the process of changing your itinerary in the event of a cancellation or delay, as online travel agencies may present additional challenges.
Scott Keyes, founder of Scott’s Cheap Flights, emphasizes that your rights under the law remain unchanged. However, dealing directly with the airline is often more straightforward and efficient.
Ensure you have all required travel documentation, such as a negative COVID-19 test or proof of vaccination, which many countries mandate for entry. Michael Holtz, CEO of SmartFlyer, urges travelers to gather accurate information before reaching the airport to avoid confusion.
Checking in 24 hours before your flight is recommended, and if possible, travel with only a carry-on to bypass check-in and baggage drop lines, which can be lengthy.
Continuously monitor your flight status for any updates or changes, and consider downloading the airline’s application for easier tracking.
What to Do If Your Flight Is Delayed
Under federal law, airlines must provide a full refund if a flight is significantly delayed, and the passenger chooses not to travel. Typically, a delay of two hours is considered significant, but specifics vary by airline, so check the airline’s contract of carriage for details.
If you decide to proceed with your travel, join the line to speak with a gate agent to discuss your options. Alternatively, call the airline, and if faced with long U.S. customer service wait times, consider trying international numbers listed on their website for potentially shorter waits.
For those who booked through online travel agencies, direct communication with the agency is necessary to resolve issues, as airlines may be reluctant to assist.
While compensation is generally not guaranteed under federal law for continued travel, some airlines may offer compensation if the delay is attributed to their fault, such as mechanical or staffing issues.
For instance, American Airlines arranges overnight stays for customers with flights delayed beyond midnight on the scheduled arrival day. JetBlue provides compensation for delays exceeding three hours, ranging from $50 to $200, depending on the delay length. Compensation details may vary, so refer to the airline’s policies or contact the booking agency if applicable.
