Winter weather can bring about flight delays and cancellations. When that happens, do you know your flyers rights? Yes, you do have flyers rights.
While the airlines are not responsible for an act of god, if a flight is canceled you’re still entitled to a refund for that flight.
The airline will of course, offer to rebook you on the next available flight and if you must travel you’ll probably take it. Afterall, if it’s due to weather, all of the airlines will be affected. However, if your travel plans are no longer doable within a certain time frame, you have the right to a refund for the canceled flight.
The airline, in this case is not responsible for meals or other compensation because it is an act of God.
To better prepare for winter weather woes, book a non-stop flight if possible. Managing one flight is a lot simpler than managing multiple flights.
If you are on a connecting flight, do not book with the minimum connecting time, especially if your connecting airport is in another wintry destination. I recommend no less than 2 hours.
If you’re traveling on a cruise, book your flight to arrive a day ahead of the cruise rather than the day of. The extra cost for a night at a hotel is well worth the eliminated stress should your flight be delayed or canceled.
Buy Travelers Insurance, I can’t emphasize that enough. While you’re entitled to a refund of a canceled flight, the airline is not responsible for other components of your travel package, unless you purchased it through them. Remember a good Travel Insurance policy will include coverage for travel delay, travel interruption, baggage delay, etc. So it’s worth it.
To get more information and a full list of your flyers rights, visit flyersrights.org.
Happy and SAFE travels!
Ja’Vonne Harley, AKA, The Traveling Culturati