March has been rough for travelers to, from, and within the United States, as the country has been riddled with flight delays and cancellations.
Multiple factors have caused widespread disruptions. Amid the ongoing partial government shutdown, there have been essential airport worker callouts, understaffing, and subsequent delays. Flyers at several airports across the U.S. have spent hours in lines to get through security screening, with some even missing their flights altogether. Hard-hitting regional storms (snow, rain, wind, and thunder) have also prompted disruptions. Additionally, in New York City, a fatal runway collision at LaGuardia Airport led to the flight hub temporarily closing.
The conflict involving the U.S. and Israel against Iran has led Iran to close the Strait of Hormuz, which has significantly raised oil prices globally. Rising fuel prices also contribute to flight disruptions, as airlines adjust their networks and routes based on updated operational costs.
Amid all the airline industry turmoil, millions of travelers are preparing, embarking on, and returning from their spring break vacations.
Should something go wrong, being proactive about when and how to rebook your travel can save time and hassle.
What Are My Rights When It Comes To Rebooking? What Should I Know?
Rebooking options after a flight delay or cancellation include being put on another flight with the same carrier, another flight with a different carrier, or getting a refund for your airfare. Whether an airline is willing to book you on another airline depends on the carrier and the circumstances.
The Department of Transportation (DOT) shares the commitments that 10 major U.S. airlines have individually made to their respective customers in the event of “controllable” flight cancellations and delays. All the airlines (Alaska, Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier, Hawaiian, JetBlue, Southwest, Spirit, and United) commit to rebooking a passenger on a flight with the same carrier “at no additional cost” if there’s a controllable cancellation or significant delay.
DOT states that airlines are required to “provide a prompt refund” if they cancel or make a significant change (including a delay) to a passenger’s flight, and the person doesn’t want to be rebooked or accept an alternative offer. That rule also applies to those who’ve purchased non-refundable airfare.
There are several smart strategies and tips a person can use to get rebooked if their flight is delayed or canceled.
- While you’re waiting in line to reach an airport agent for your airline, also call the carrier’s customer service hotline. You might be more quickly able to speak with a representative on the phone rather than one at the airport counter, especially if there’s a long line ahead of you. Additionally, rebooking via the airline’s app may be faster than waiting to reach its airport counter.
- Another way to multitask while waiting to reach a customer support desk is by simultaneously searching for flights that you’d prefer to be booked on. Doing so will help speed things up at the counter.
- Traveling to alternate airports and being open to alternative flight routes may present more rebooking options.
- Stay informed by your carrier regarding any changes to your itinerary. You can do so by opting in to receive notifications, downloading the airline’s app, and checking the carrier’s social media pages. The quicker you know you’ll need to rebook, the faster you can get it done. Those who rebook earlier sometimes have more (and more favorable) options to choose from.
- An airline’s elite status loyalty members may be particularly lucky negotiating same-day standby travel as their rebooking option, especially for free. However, non-status-holding flyers can also test their luck and ask about flying standby.
