Traveling by air comes with its share of uncertainties, and one of the most frustrating is the possibility of flight cancellations or delays. In the wake of recent incidents like the United Airlines computer glitch, it’s essential to know your rights as a passenger. We talked to industry experts to gather essential steps you should take when your travel plans hit turbulence.
Stay Informed
The first step is to be informed. Airlines typically notify passengers about delays and cancellations through email, text messages, or app notifications if you’ve provided your contact information when booking. However, it’s wise to do some extra legwork. Keeping an eye on your flight’s status can provide crucial information about potential delays.
Dealing with Delays
Most airlines offer flight tracking features in their apps. By monitoring your aircraft’s location, you can anticipate delays and contact the airline for possible rebooking. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Airline Customer Service Dashboard outlines passenger rights in case of “controllable” cancellations and delays, including rebooking passengers on the same airline for significant delays and covering meals for delays exceeding three hours.
Also read: Delta Say Free Wi-Fi Coming on U.S. Flights
Flight Cancellation Strategies
If your flight is canceled, the key is to act swiftly. It is importance to try to get rebooked on another flight, even if it’s with a different airline. Many airlines have agreements with each other and may be flexible in such situations. It is aldo suggested to explore social media or international toll-free numbers for assistance.
Remember, if an airline cancels your flight, you’re legally entitled to a full refund, covering the ticket price, taxes, baggage fees, and additional charges. The refund should arrive within seven business days for credit card payments and 20 days for cash or check payments.
Always Have a Plan B
If your flight gets canceled, you can explore the possibility of booking with a competitor carrier. Airlines often have interline agreements, making this a viable option. When contacting the airline, provide them with the competitor’s information and see how willing they are to cooperate.
Seek Compensation
In case of overnight cancellations, all major airlines (except Frontier) are obliged to cover a hotel stay and transportation. Additionally, consider asking the airline for reimbursement of expenses incurred due to the cancellation. Many credit cards also offer travel protection, which can be a valuable resource.
Conclusion
Flight disruptions can be stressful, but being prepared and knowing your rights can make a significant difference in your travel experience.
