It has been a tough slog for many air travelers in 2022. And the year is going out as rough as it came in after a massive winter storm impacted large parts of the country.
So, what if you’re one of the unlucky passengers caught up with a canceled or delayed flight?
Here’s some advice:
Avoid flying in bad weather altogether. When you know a major weather event is forecast, utilize waivers offered occasionally by airlines to change flights ahead of time without a fee, Scott Keyes, the founder of Scott’s Cheap Flights, suggested.
Avoid getting trapped at the airport. Check your flight status before you go to the airport, sign up for airlines’ free text alerts and check the website FlightAware to track larger flight trends across the country, Keyes advised.
Communicate. Should delays and cancellations happen after you’ve arrived at the airport, Keyes says to head to the airline agent’s desk as fast as you can. Then you might want to call your carrier while waiting, or get through to an international call center, he said. You can also use a self-serve kiosk, according to American Airlines.
Attitude and research matter. Speaking to agents with kindness and sympathy can go a long way, Keyes said. US PIRG, a consumer advocacy group suggests fliers should be ready to explain what you want and be persistent in trying to get the situation resolved satisfactorily.
Other airlines may be able to help. Cooperation between airlines could work in your favor. Due to interline agreements, some airlines can put you on another carrier’s flight, Lousson Smith of Scott’s Cheap Flights told CNN travel.
Consider buying travel insurance. Many travel insurance policies provide extra coverage in the case of flight delays and cancellations, according to Airport Parking Reservations. The site also advises you keep any receipts of airport purchases because you can try to get the money back from the airline later.
Look into refund entitlements. The US Department of Transportation says you are entitled to a refund of your ticket cost because of a cancellation or “significant delay” and you choose not to travel.
