This article covers methods to avoid airline cancellations and what to do if they happen.
As more Americans travel by air, and airlines to try to squeeze more dollars out of every trip, it is more and more common for flights to be delayed, passengers to miss connections, and weary travelers to be stuck in strange cities for hours or days.
Savvy travelers have learned to deal with the inevitable. This article provides information on how to prepare for the delays, and what to do when they happen.
Avoiding Airline Delays
The primary method for avoiding missed connections is to avoid connections altogether. If at all possible, arrange for nonstop travel. It may be preferable to fly nonstop to larger airports and drive to your destination, rather than risk connections.
Most rental car companies offer unlimited mileage in the state where the airport is and adjoining states. If this is not possible, is it advisable to leave at least an hour for connections. Airlines will schedule connections as close as one half hour, which will only work if there are no delays of any duration.
It is also best to avoid connections that involve O’Hare in Chicago or the New York airports, as delays are common. Delays are less likely in smaller hubs like Cleveland, Cincinnati or Detroit. If there is a later flight that is a viable option, a close connection may be acceptable.
Unfortunately, with many airplanes running at capacity, even if there are seats on the later flight, they will be the less desirable middle seat, not in first class.
Flight Cancellations and Overnight Stays
It does happen that passengers are stranded overnight. It is important to know whether the reason for a flight cancellation is the fault of the airline or not. If there is a mechanical issue with an airplane, then generally the airline is responsible for securing and paying for lodging and airport meals for the night.
If the airline does cover lodging, expect that it will be at a local budget priced motel near the airport.
In most cases the cancellation is not the fault of the airline, and is due to weather, or action by the Federal Aviation Administration. In the event of a weather cancellation or missed connection, the airline is not responsible for lodging or meals.
When a cancellation is announced, a line forms at the ticket counter to rebook and find out what lodging options are available. This is probably the worst method, as the lines are long and the person working the counter may be less experienced.
Airline Clubs
The best choice is to have already purchased an airport club membership, such as Continental’s President’s Club, or American’s Admiral’s Club. These clubs provide trained reservation specialists and smaller lines. The cost for a regular traveler is worth considering.
The next best option is to use the airline’s toll-free number to reach a knowledgeable agent. Regular flyers who have reached a frequent flyer level should know the separate number available to them. Some airports and airlines have special service centers that are better equipped to handle difficult rebookings.
Hotel Options if Stranded Overnight
If you are stranded overnight, you are faced with the option of sleeping in the terminal or securing a hotel. Many hotels in the airport area have shuttle buses from the terminal. You can reserve from the airport, or via a toll-free number.
You can sometimes receive information and obtain discounted rates from the airline. It does not hurt to ask. In the event of a major delay, speed is of the essence. You will be competing with other passengers for rooms and closer hotels.
In cities with more than one airport, it is important to specify which in airport you are stranded, else you may get a hotel near Houston Hobby when you are stuck at Bush International.
Cancellation and missed connections are difficult for everyone involved, including the airline staff. It is important to remain patient and courteous to employees and your fellow passengers. Even if you end up a few hours or a day late, the trip by air will likely still be much shorter than by automobile.
