Winter weather often causes flight delays and cancellations. While airlines can’t control the weather, they are required in the U.S. to provide refunds to customers whose flights are canceled. Here’s what to know about your rights, and what to know when cancellations start piling up:
Keep an Eye on Weather Forecasts
When airlines expect bad weather to create problems for flights, they often give travelers a chance to postpone their trips by a few days without having to pay a fee. Search online for your airline’s name and “travel alerts” or similar phrases to look for possible rescheduling offers.
Check Before Going to the Airport
It’s better to be stuck at home or in a hotel than to be stranded in an airport terminal, so use the airline’s app or flight websites to make sure that your flight is still on before heading to the airport. Airlines usually cancel flights hours or even days before departure time.
What to Do When Your Flight Is Canceled
My Flight Was Canceled, Now What?
If you’re already at the airport, it’s time to find another flight. Get in line to speak to a customer service representative, and call or go online to connect to the airline’s reservations staff. It also helps to reach out on X, the site formerly known as Twitter. Most airlines will rebook you on a later flight for no additional charge, but it depends on the availability of open seats.
Can I Ask to Be Booked on Another Airline?
You can, but airlines aren’t required to put you on another carrier’s flight. Some airlines say they can, but even then it’s often hit or miss. Researching alternate flights while you wait to talk to an agent can help.
Am I Owed a Refund?
If you no longer want to take the trip, or found another way of getting to your destination, the airline is legally required to refund your money, even if you bought a non-refundable ticket. “They can’t stick you with a voucher, you can get your money back,” says Kyle Potter, executive editor of Thrifty Traveler. “That means you have to cancel your entire reservation, but that could be an easy option for some travelers — especially if you wind up booking a flight on another carrier.”
What Else Will Airlines Cover?
Each airline has its own policy, and the U.S. Department of Transportation has a site that lets consumers see the commitments that each airline makes for refunds and covering other expenses when flights are canceled or significantly delayed.
Other Tips
Consider booking a backup flight if the weather forecast is troubling. Some airlines stand out as potential backups because they let customers get a full refund as long as they cancel within 24 hours of booking. If lots of flights are canceled, airline agents will soon be swamped, so be patient and nice to the agent on the phone or in person. They’re just trying to do their job amidst chaos.
Conclusion:
Winter travel can be challenging, but by being prepared and knowing your rights, you can minimize the hassle of flight cancellations. Make sure to stay informed about the weather forecast and airline policies, and don’t hesitate to seek assistance from your airline’s customer service team if your flight is canceled.
FAQs
Q: What can I do if my flight is canceled due to bad weather?
A: Airlines may offer a chance to reschedule your flight or provide a refund. Make sure to check the airline’s website or contact their customer service team for options.
Q: Can I request to be booked on another airline?
A: Yes, you can, but airlines aren’t required to accommodate your request.
Q: If my flight is canceled, will I get compensation?
A: U.S. airlines are not required to provide cash compensation and cover lodging and meals for stranded passengers, except in cases of extreme weather events.
Q: What else is covered by airline policies?
A: Each airline has its own policy, and some may refund or compensate customers for additional expenses, such as bag fees and seat upgrades.
