Flight Cancelations: What You Should Do...

ETA: 08/29/2023

As the U.S. braces for Hurricanes Idalia & Franklin many of you may be wondering about upcoming flight cancelations. Here are some things you should do in case of cancelations.

The travel re-start has definitely come with it's growing pains. While travel is ramping up, airlines seem to be struggling.

With so many flight cancelations and delays due to staff shortages, sick passengers and crew time outs, travelers are often left wondering what to do if their flight gets canceled?

Stress of flight cancelations is one of the worst feelings. If you end up in that situation whether a canceled flight or changed, here is what you should do:

How to know if there are any changes to your flight?

To stay in the know, download the app for the airline that you are flying with and turn on the notifications. Should any changes or cancelations occur, you will be notified immediately.

Another app that is a great resource is a flight tracker app like Flight Aware. This app will allow you to track your flight and even your plane. Just set it up to track your flights and you will be notified in real time.

If you're not an app person, you can simply run a Google search by airline and flight number and check on the status of your flight.

Some of my clients love using Twitter as a way to get some answers right away from the the airline in real time. They have dedicated social media teams tasked to do just that!

Contact your airline

Most airlines will not tell you this: wait times over the phone can be shorter than in person at the airport airline counter. If there is a long line at the gate, be sure to call the airline or contact them via social media.

Clint Henderson, Managing Editor for News, The Points Guy says, “If your flight is delayed or canceled, first see if the airline you are flying can put you on a competitor’s flight.”

YES! You most definitely can ask the airline to put you on another flight, even if it's on another airline.

There is also the option of asking for a refund for your ticket and booking another flight.

Airline refund policies

Because every airline has their own refund policies for canceled flights and delays, please make sure to read the airline's terms and conditions before booking your flights. Keep in mind, policies could change depending on the type of ticket you purchased.

Domestic flights usually result in getting booked on another flight or receiving a voucher for a future trip. If you cancel your trip after a flight cancellation, you are able to get a refund for the unused portion of the flight. This includes non-refundable tickets as well as prepaid baggage fees and flight upgrades.

Traveler's rights

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) requires airlines to find travelers flights if flights get canceled and if a traveler chooses not to re-book, they should receive a refund, even with a non-refundable ticket.

The airlines will always try to get you re-booked, but remember, it is your right to ask for a refund!

This requirement applies to flight cancellations that are of fault to the airline.

Instances involving bad weather is not part of the policy and airlines are not required to rebook or refund passengers.

It is recommended not to purchase ‘basic’ fares as it’s more difficult to receive vouchers and refunds.

For more information: U.S. Department of Transportation

Do your homework before booking

If you are not using a travel professional, please, please, please, do your research! Look at all your options and even if you are saving a few dollars, try not to book that final flight of the day. If your flight gets cancelled, you will have to wait until the next day for another flight.

Purchase travel protection to ensure you’re protected if anything goes wrong. Always be sure to read the terms and conditions of your flight and travel protection policy before booking.

Have a backup plan

Again, if you are doing all the planning and research, know what other airlines are flying the same route. This will come in handy if your flight gets canceled and you have to book with another airline.

A canceled or delayed flight can absolutely ruin that vacation you have been waiting for. Make sure you are aware of what to do, just in case!

Happy Travels!

Have travel questions? Looking for travel tips? Or suggestions on what topics you want to read about? Email me at zahi@holabeachestravel.com

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