Sometimes, despite all efforts of travelers to plan a trip in advance, there could be some unpleasant surprises, including flight delays and cancellations. Unfortunately, travelers from countries all around the world cope with flight cancellations almost every day. Coping with cancellations could be somewhat stressful for passengers, but tips provided in this article will help you to deal with unforeseen situations in the best possible way. So, learn more here about what to do if your flight is canceled.
Calm Down and Contact the Airline
First of all, don’t panic. Take a deep breath and set your heart at rest. The less stressed you are, the better you can cope with issues. If you’re at the airport you should get in touch with representatives of your airline company or gate agents. Usually, airlines rebook passengers themselves on the next available flight. This process could be initiated automatically or with the help of gate agents.
Ask to be Rebooked with Another Airline
You are welcome to take the initiative and ask gate agents whether you are on a departure list or not. Be respectful to agents and follow their instructions. You can try to fly with another airline if there are no possibilities to get to your destination on time. Don’t forget to receive a refund for your cancelation, but keep in mind that it takes some time and the amount depends on the airline.
Get your Money Back
Besides, depending on the policies of an airline, you can get a refund in different forms. If you want to rebook your flight, don’t forget that you can pay back the difference if the next flight is cheaper. In the case, if the next flight is more expensive than your original one, you can try to negotiate with an airline company. There is a chance to get a ticket without extra charge.
Use Messengers and Social Media
It’s also advisable to use applications from airline companies, as it can help you to save time and money, get a quick response from customer support, and take priority in the case of delays or cancellations. Many airlines also provide passengers with assistance through Twitter and Facebook. For example, you can just tweet your predicament to the company and ask for help.
Check the Status of any Connecting Flights
If you have any connecting flights, make sure they could be rebooked as well. Such a function might be provided by some airline companies automatically. Anyway, you have to get in touch with customer support to rebook all your connecting flights. Sometimes, the fastest way to contact the airline and address all issues is an international phone number. Passengers also are welcome to use Skype and Whatsapp to receive the instructions concerning flight delays, refunds, rebooking.
Inform Hotels and Rental Services
In the case of delay or cancellation, you have to contact representatives of the hotels and other rental services and inform them about your new arrival time. It can help you to stick to the plan for your trip and stay calm. By the way, flight delay could be a good opportunity for some travelers to book a hotel room or rent a car, as many people have no time to plan a trip in advance. Anyway, be optimistic!
Ask For Accommodation and Meal Vouchers
In case you have to wait until the next day for a flight, airline companies, as a rule, will offer you stay in a nearby hotel free of charge. Such a possibility is available only for those travelers who aren’t local and the reasons for a flight cancellation must be the following:
- mechanical issues;
- problems with flight attendants.
Passengers are welcome to request a voucher for meals while waiting. It should be noted that in some cases, including troubles due to weather, such benefits are not available.
Ask For Compensation
You should know that you have the right to ask for compensation. Do it, if you can prove that the cancellation of an international flight is the reason for your financial loss and that a company could prevent it. Use airplane apps to get more information about such possibilities.
Ask for an Amenity Kit
It is advised not to pack in a checked bag such important things as documents, jewelry, cash and cards, medications, and some toiletries. In the case, if you don’t have your toiletries with you or at all, feel free to ask for an amenity kit at your airline’s baggage service office. Usually, it consists:
- a toothbrush with a toothpaste;
- earplugs;
- sleep mask;
- lotion and lip balsam.
Take Advantage of Your Travel Insurance to Get Back Extra costs
Travel insurance is a must-have for passengers looking for protection. Depending on the continuance of the delay and the coverage options, with your travel insurance you can get the reimbursement for lost prepaid expenses and money that you have spent during the flight delay or even cancellation. It involves costs on food, hotel, and transport.
Explore Your Airport
Anyway, don’t panic and look around, as there are many airports, especially huge international hubs, that offer travelers lots of opportunities for entertainment and shopping. You can visit with your family stunning play areas and enjoy art installations. Some airports can amaze you even with waterfalls and unique restaurants.
You Can Reduce Risks
You can reduce the likelihood of unpleasant situations during your traveling. You can check the histories of all delays and cancellations of the preferred airline company before booking. It’s recommended to choose:
- nonstop flights;
- off-peak days;
- departures in the morning.
According to data from AirHelp, there is a small possibility to face flight problems from 6 a.m. to 11:59 a.m.