Traveling by air can be exciting, but flight delays and cancellations are frustrating situations that many of us face. Whether you’re going on holiday or flying for work, nothing can disrupt your plans more than a delay or a cancellation. However, knowing exactly what to do in these situations can help reduce stress and make things a little easier to handle.
In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through what you should do if your flight is delayed or cancelled, what rights you have as a passenger, and how to make the best of an inconvenient situation. By the end, you’ll feel more confident and prepared to manage any unexpected changes to your travel plans.
Why Do Flights Get Delayed or Cancelled?
Before we jump into what to do, it’s helpful to understand why flights get delayed or cancelled in the first place. Here are some of the most common reasons:
- Bad weather: Storms, fog, and high winds can cause major flight delays or cancellations.
- Technical issues: Aircraft maintenance problems can lead to delays while the airline ensures the plane is safe to fly.
- Air traffic control: Sometimes, there’s too much air traffic at certain airports, leading to delays.
- Crew scheduling problems: Flights can be delayed if crew members are not available or if they’ve reached their working hour limits.
- Security issues: Increased security measures, particularly at busy airports, can sometimes cause delays.
Each of these factors can affect your flight, but understanding why a delay happens doesn’t make it less frustrating. So, let’s get into the steps you should take when you’re faced with a delay or cancellation.
What to Do If Your Flight Is Delayed
1. Stay Calm and Check the Flight Status
The first thing you need to do when your flight is delayed is stay calm. Delays are an unfortunate but common part of air travel. Panicking will only make the situation more stressful.
Next, check your flight status. Most airlines will provide updates through their apps, websites, or the airport’s departure boards. This will help you understand how long the delay might be and whether there’s a chance of the flight being cancelled.
If you’re already at the airport, ask at the airline’s desk for more information. If you’re still at home or your hotel, use the airline’s website or app for live updates.
Check your flight status online with FlightAware.
2. Know Your Rights as a Passenger
Depending on where you’re flying from or to, you may have certain rights if your flight is delayed. For example, in the European Union (EU), airlines are required to provide compensation if your flight is delayed by more than three hours, depending on the reason for the delay.
In the United States, while there aren’t federal regulations guaranteeing compensation for delayed flights, many airlines have their own policies that could include food vouchers or hotel accommodations if the delay is significant.
Be sure to read up on your rights and ask the airline staff what they can offer you.
Learn about passenger rights in the EU from the European Commission.
3. Contact the Airline Directly
If your flight is delayed, it’s always a good idea to contact the airline directly. Many airlines have customer service hotlines or live chat options on their websites. If you’re at the airport, you can also head to the airline’s customer service desk.
Explain your situation and ask about possible options, such as being rebooked on another flight, receiving compensation, or obtaining a meal or accommodation voucher.
4. Check for Rebooking Options
In some cases, airlines will automatically rebook you on the next available flight, but it’s always smart to double-check. If your delay is extensive, you can request to be put on a different flight, especially if it’s a code-share flight (a flight operated by another airline).
It’s also helpful to know that some airlines allow you to rebook yourself through their mobile app, which can save time.
Explore more about rebooking policies on major airlines here.
5. Use Lounge Access If Available
If your flight is delayed and you have a long wait, it’s worth checking if you can access an airport lounge. Many airlines offer lounge access to passengers who are flying first or business class, or if they hold certain credit cards. Even if you don’t qualify for free access, many lounges offer a paid entry option.
Lounges provide a quieter and more comfortable environment where you can relax, enjoy refreshments, and stay updated on your flight status. This can make waiting for a delayed flight a lot more pleasant.
Find airport lounges worldwide with LoungeBuddy.
6. Stay Prepared for the Next Steps
Flight delays can change quickly—sometimes the delay gets extended, while other times the flight might suddenly be ready for departure. It’s important to stay close to the gate or regularly check your phone for updates. Keep all your belongings with you and stay ready to move when you need to.
What to Do If Your Flight Is Cancelled
1. Act Fast
If your flight gets cancelled, it’s important to act quickly. Airlines typically assist passengers on a first-come, first-served basis when rebooking after a cancellation, so the sooner you act, the more options you’ll have.
Most airlines will notify you about a cancellation via email, text message, or their mobile app. As soon as you hear about the cancellation, go to the airline’s website or app to check for available rebooking options.
2. Contact the Airline for Rebooking
Many airlines will automatically rebook you on the next available flight, but it’s always best to check and confirm. You can often rebook online through the airline’s app or by calling customer service.
If you’re at the airport, head to the airline’s service desk as soon as possible. The sooner you speak with a representative, the more likely it is that you’ll be able to secure a seat on another flight.
Learn more about your options from the International Air Transport Association.
3. Know Your Rights for Compensation
If your flight is cancelled, you may be entitled to compensation depending on the circumstances and where you’re flying from or to. In the EU, passengers are entitled to financial compensation if a flight is cancelled less than 14 days before departure, unless the airline can prove the cancellation was due to extraordinary circumstances (such as extreme weather or security risks). You may also be entitled to a refund or a seat on an alternative flight.
In the US, airlines are required to refund passengers for cancelled flights, but compensation beyond this depends on the airline’s policy. Make sure to ask about your rights when speaking to the airline.
Read more about your passenger rights in case of cancellation from the European Commission.
4. Ask for Meal and Hotel Vouchers
If your flight is cancelled and the next available flight is hours away or even the next day, airlines often provide meal vouchers or cover hotel accommodations. This can be especially useful if you’re stranded overnight. Always ask the airline representative if these options are available, as it can vary depending on the airline and the cause of the cancellation.
5. Explore Alternative Travel Options
If rebooking a flight isn’t possible or the delay is too long, consider alternative travel options such as trains, buses, or renting a car. This may be more practical for short distances, especially within Europe or other regions with well-developed train networks. Before you decide to switch modes of travel, check the refund policies of your airline to make sure you’re entitled to a refund for the cancelled flight.
Check train schedules in Europe with Rail Europe.
6. File a Claim for Compensation
If your flight is cancelled due to reasons within the airline’s control (such as technical issues), you may be eligible for financial compensation, depending on the local laws. Keep all receipts and documentation related to your delay or cancellation, as you may need these when filing a claim for compensation.
In the EU, for example, passengers may be entitled to up to €600 in compensation, depending on the distance of the flight and how long the delay or cancellation was. You can often file a claim directly with the airline, or use third-party services that help passengers claim compensation.
Learn how to file for flight compensation with AirHelp.
Tips for Managing Flight Delays or Cancellations
1. Always Have a Backup Plan
It’s always a good idea to have a backup plan when flying, especially during busy travel periods. Check for alternative flights, know the nearest hotels, and stay aware of other travel options (like buses or trains) that could help you reach your destination in case of a cancellation.
2. Carry Essential Items in Your Hand Luggage
Make sure to pack important items like medications, chargers, a change of clothes, and toiletries in your carry-on bag. If your flight is delayed or cancelled and you need to stay overnight at the airport or in a hotel, you’ll have everything you need with you.
3. Stay Informed and Use Technology
Most airlines offer mobile apps that provide real-time updates on flight status, gate changes, and rebooking options. Download the app for the airline you’re flying with and turn on notifications to stay informed about any changes to your flight.
Download the FlightAware app for live flight tracking.
Conclusion
Flight delays and cancellations can be stressful, but knowing what to do can make the experience easier. Stay calm, know your rights, and act quickly to find a solution. Whether you’re waiting out a delay at the airport or navigating the process of rebooking after a cancellation, being prepared is the key to handling these unexpected changes.
For more information on travel rights and rebooking policies, explore the helpful resources we’ve linked throughout the article. Safe travels!
FAQ: What to Do If Your Flight Is Delayed or Cancelled? A Complete Guide
1. What should I do first if my flight is delayed?
If your flight is delayed, the first step is to stay calm and check your airline’s official communication channels. This includes their website, mobile app, and social media accounts for real-time updates. If you are already at the airport, listen for announcements at the gate. Check the new estimated departure time and whether you need to report to a different gate. It’s also wise to notify anyone who might be picking you up or awaiting your arrival.
2. How can I find out the reason for my flight delay?
Airlines typically provide updates on delays through announcements, their mobile apps, or websites. You can also ask airline staff at the airport for information. Common reasons for flight delays include weather conditions, technical issues, air traffic control restrictions, or crew availability. Remember that airlines may not always provide specific details but will often share general reasons for the delay.
3. What are my rights if my flight is delayed or cancelled?
Passenger rights vary by country and airline, but generally, if your flight is delayed or cancelled, you may be entitled to certain compensations. In the European Union, for instance, regulations stipulate compensation for delays over three hours or cancellations if you were informed less than 14 days before departure. In the U.S., airlines are required to provide assistance for long delays, including meals, lodging, and rebooking options, but compensation is less standardized. Always check your airline’s policy and the relevant regulations based on your location.
4. Will the airline provide meals or accommodations for long delays?
Whether the airline provides meals or accommodations during a long delay depends on the airline’s policy and the specific circumstances of the delay. In many cases, if the delay is significant (typically over three hours), airlines may offer meal vouchers or accommodations for overnight stays, especially if the delay is due to their own operational issues. Be sure to ask airline staff about your eligibility for these services, as they can vary greatly between airlines.
5. How do I rebook my flight if it’s cancelled?
If your flight is cancelled, contact your airline as soon as possible for rebooking options. You can do this at the airline’s customer service desk at the airport, via their website, or through their mobile app. Some airlines allow you to rebook on a different flight without additional fees, especially if the cancellation was due to airline issues. If you have a travel agent, they can also assist with rebooking. Keep your ticket and confirmation number handy for a smoother process.
6. What if my connecting flight is missed due to a delay?
If a delay causes you to miss a connecting flight, the airline is typically responsible for rebooking you on the next available flight to your final destination. Visit the airline’s customer service desk at the airport or contact them via their app for assistance. Make sure to explain your situation, as they may prioritize rebooking for passengers whose delays were caused by the airline. If your connecting flight is with a different airline, you may need to contact that airline for rebooking assistance.
7. What should I do if I’m stranded at the airport overnight?
If you find yourself stranded at the airport overnight due to a flight cancellation, first check if the airline can provide accommodation or meal vouchers. If not, consider these options: Look for nearby hotels and see if any airport shuttles can take you there. You can also check for last-minute deals on travel websites. Bring essentials like a travel pillow, blanket, and snacks to make your stay more comfortable, and ensure your phone is charged for any last-minute updates.
8. How can I keep track of flight changes?
To keep track of flight changes effectively, use multiple sources of information. Download your airline’s mobile app, which often provides real-time updates and notifications. Sign up for flight alerts via email or SMS if the airline offers this service. Additionally, you can monitor flight tracking websites and apps, like FlightAware or FlightRadar24, to see live updates on flight status. Following the airline on social media can also provide quick updates on delays or cancellations.
9. What items should I carry in my travel bag in case of delays?
Having a well-prepared travel bag can make delays much more manageable. Essential items include:
- Snacks and water: To keep you energized and hydrated during long waits.
- Chargers and power banks: To keep your devices charged for communication and entertainment.
- Comfort items: Such as a travel pillow, blanket, and a good book or e-reader to help pass the time.
- Toiletries: Miniature hygiene products can be helpful if you need to freshen up.
- Medications: Bring any necessary medications in case of unexpected delays. Having these essentials can enhance your comfort during any unplanned waiting periods.
10. How can I minimize the chances of flight delays?
While you can’t control weather or operational issues, there are strategies to minimize the risk of delays. Consider booking flights during off-peak times, as early morning flights tend to have fewer delays compared to afternoon or evening flights. Check the historical performance of airlines on your route, as some have better on-time records than others. Additionally, direct flights minimize the potential for missed connections and delays. Lastly, always arrive at the airport early to account for security lines and boarding procedures.
