Canceled and delayed flights can be a major headache for travelers, causing stress and frustration as they try to navigate through the chaos of rebooking and rearranging their plans. With nearly 2,500 U.S. flights canceled and over 9,800 flights delayed on a single Sunday, it’s clear that flight disruptions are a common occurrence that can impact a large number of people. So, what should you know when dealing with canceled or delayed flights? Here are four key things to keep in mind:
1. Refunds and Compensation:
If your flight is canceled for any reason, the Department of Transportation rules require all airlines to offer customers a refund. However, if the cancellation is within the airline’s control, you may be entitled to additional compensation. This compensation can include rebooking on the same airline or a partner airline at no extra cost, providing meals or vouchers for meals during long delays, offering complimentary hotel accommodations for overnight cancellations, and providing ground transportation to and from the hotel.
2. Different Airlines, Different Policies:
Not all airlines have the same policies when it comes to cancellations and delays. For example, Alaska, American, Delta, Hawaiian, JetBlue, and United have committed to specific actions in case of controllable cancellations, while Allegiant, Southwest, and Spirit have slightly different policies. It’s important to know what your rights are with the airline you are flying with and what you can expect in terms of compensation.
3. Delayed Flights:
While federal laws do not currently require airlines to compensate travelers for delayed flights, many carriers have committed to offering various forms of compensation for significant delays within their control. This can include rebooking on the same or partner airline, providing meals or vouchers for meals during long delays, offering complimentary hotel accommodations for overnight delays, and providing ground transportation to and from the hotel.
4. Additional Compensation:
In some cases, airlines may offer compensation beyond what is required by the Department of Transportation. This can include cash equivalents, travel credits/vouchers, or miles for frequent flyer members. Additionally, travel insurance can help offset costs tied to covered cancellations and delays, and some credit card companies may also cover unexpected travel expenses related to flight disruptions if the flight was originally booked with their card.
In conclusion, dealing with canceled and delayed flights can be a frustrating experience, but knowing your rights and understanding the policies of the airline you are flying with can help make the process smoother. By being informed and prepared, you can navigate through flight disruptions with more ease and hopefully reach your destination without too much hassle.
