It is August 2024. Since the return of travel in early 2022 following the Covid-19 pandemic, airlines have faced staff shortages, strike action (actual and threatened), tightening regulations, and higher operating costs. These conditions, in addition to the challenges of regular operations, can seriously affect an airline’s level of service. Travelers may find themselves inconvenienced and perhaps spending additional time and money to reach their destination.
According to The Air Travel Consumer Report, in May 2024 flights with major US airlines were delayed 20-40% of the time. Given that statistic, it is a good idea for you to be prepared. Here are some suggestions to help you manage a flight delay or cancellation:
- Add your contact information to a reservation when checking in and allow the airline to send you notifications. This provides the opportunity for you to find out early about any changes, and the airline may provide an alternative flight along with the change notification. If the suggested alternative works, you may accept it and be rebooked automatically.
- If you are already at the airport, go immediately to the airline counter. You may have to wait in line, but it is often easiest to talk through options face-to-face with the person who can adjust your booking. In some cases, fees may be waived, or arrangements made that wouldn’t normally be permitted. Remember that airport personnel do not make the rules, and often deal with irate customers. A little kindness and patience go a long way.
- During business hours, call your travel advisor. We have access to your reservation and can check several airlines for the next available flight. Generally, we are unable to waive any airline fees when rebooking on short notice, unless the delay is due to an ongoing known event.
- Check your itinerary for an emergency contact number. Clients travelling for business reasons and/or events often have access to emergency after-hours support. There is a charge for this service, and it is only to be used as a last resort when all other options have failed. It may be difficult to reach an agent on this line when flights are affected by weather or system failures, even when those are not occurring in your area.
- Carry travel insurance. This is not always practical for business travelers, as airlines may offer low or no change fees, and credits in case of cancellations. However, it is a must for vacation travelers when an entire itinerary may be affected by one delayed flight.
- Plan ahead and pack plenty of patience. Airlines continue to evolve in the new normal of the travel industry. Recognize that flights may not be as reliable as they were in the past, so allow enough time to arrive at your destination. If you must spend extra time waiting around an airport, treat yourself to a lounge pass or a nice meal to make it a better experience. Prepare to be flexible and make the best of the journey, and then you will be pleasantly surprised when flights operate smoothly and on time.