Key Information on Flight Cancellations Due to Bad Weather

Summary: As thunderstorms threaten the East Coast, West Coast, and regions in between during the peak summer travel season, hundreds of thousands of air travelers may face flight cancellations and delays. It’s important to stay informed about rebooking, refunds, and other essential details. Here’s what you need to know:

• Flight Disruption: By midday Thursday, approximately 500 U.S. flights had been canceled, with over 2,700 flights experiencing delays, according to FlightAware, a flight tracking service.

• Handling a Flight Cancellation: Experts emphasize the significance of remaining calm and being aware of your rights when dealing with a flight cancellation. Consider the following advice:

1. Rebooking: If you still wish to reach your destination, most airlines will rebook you on the next available flight with vacant seats, as outlined by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

2. Refunds: In the event you decide to cancel your trip, you are entitled to a full refund, even for non-refundable tickets. Additional expenses like bag fees, seat upgrades, and other extras should also be refunded.

3. Vouchers vs. Refunds: Consumer travel advocate Kurt Ebenhoch advises travelers to opt for a refund instead of vouchers for future travel. If you do choose a voucher, ensure you inquire about blackout dates and any other restrictions.

• Booking on Another Airline’s Flight: Although not obligatory, airlines may accommodate you on another carrier’s flight in some cases. It can be helpful to research alternate flights while waiting to speak with an agent and consider alternative airports near your original destination.

• Compensation and Services: Currently, each airline sets its own policies regarding compensation and services for customers whose flights are canceled. While the Biden administration has expressed interest in requiring airlines to cover expenses like meals and hotel rooms, it is not yet mandatory. Check with airline staff and use the DOT’s online dashboard for comparisons.

• Dealing with Delays: If faced with a long wait to rebook, calling the airline’s dedicated number for higher-level frequent fliers or an international help desk may offer better assistance.

• Future Planning: For more reliable travel experiences, consider booking nonstop flights and morning departures. Staying at an airport-connected hotel the night before can help ensure timely arrivals for morning flights. Flying on less busy dates is also advisable. Compare airlines’ policies on the DOT’s service dashboard, and reserve multiple flights, canceling unused ones if the airline offers refunds or credits.

• Flight Cancellation Trends: FAA data suggests that flight cancellations have been lower during the spring of 2023 compared to the previous year. Carriers have addressed previous issues contributing to disruptions, including hiring more staff and using larger aircraft. However, lingering staffing shortages, particularly among air traffic controllers, remain a concern. Efforts are underway to train more controllers, but the impact won’t be felt during this summer’s travel season.

• FAA Staffing Challenges: The FAA has faced staffing challenges in critical air traffic control facilities, which could disrupt air traffic operations. The agency is urged to develop a plan to address these challenges to ensure continuity.

By staying informed and understanding your rights, you can navigate flight cancellations caused by inclement weather more effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about flight cancellations

More about flight cancellations

• U.S. Department of Transportation
• FlightAware
• DOT’s Service Dashboard
• Biden administration’s plans for airline compensation
• FAA Data on Flight Cancellations
• Transportation Department’s Office of Inspector General Audit
• Tips for Reliable Flight Bookings
• Air Traffic Control Staffing Challenges
• Guide to Air Passenger Rights
• Tips for Dealing with Flight Cancellations