Airlines offering waivers to change departure times fee-free before this week's big storm

JetBlue airplanes wait at the gates outside terminal five at John F. Kennedy International Airport on January 4, 2018 in the Queens borough of New York City.
JetBlue airplanes wait at the gates outside terminal five at John F. Kennedy International Airport on January 4, 2018 in the Queens borough of New York City. Photo credit Rebecca Butala How/Getty Images

If you plan on traveling this week, you may want to have an emergency backup plan, as the incoming winter storm could throw a wrench into holiday travel.

Kyle Potter from the Thrifty Traveller joined News Talk 830 WCCO’s Jordana Green and Adam Carter to discuss what could be a tougher-than-expected holiday weekend.

On Tuesday morning, Potter shared on social media that with storms heading into the Midwest and Northeast, most major airlines have begun issuing weather waivers, which allow flyers to change flights without experiencing fees or hefty price differences.

For those wondering if they should try and get a jump on their travel plans scheduled for later this week, Potter says the sooner you can leave, the better.

“I think if you can, you absolutely should,” Potter said. “The skies are looking pretty clear today, but this time tomorrow, it's looking like things are going to get iffy, and by Thursday, certainly, I don’t know how many planes are going to get off the ground.”

The travel expert continued, saying that for those getting ready to travel, it looks like leaving in the next 24 hours will be your “best shot” to get to your destination.

“With these waivers that many airlines are offering right now, it is a free pass essentially, which is something airlines do not do often,” Potter said.

While not all airlines are offering the waivers, including Delta, Potter says it is still worth reaching out and explaining your situation to see if there is something the airline can do.

However, Potter said there is a possibility that Delta and other airlines not offering help don’t have room on their other flights as it is one of the busiest times to travel.

While Potter acknowledged that most travelers will have to roll the dice and hope that their flights aren’t delayed or canceled, he also gave kudos to the airlines for stepping up and offering help this close to the holidays.

After a tumultuous summer for the travel industry, Potter says most airlines have bounced back and recovered, but now they will be put to the test, and he says if they aren’t up for it, then it could “get ugly.”

Featured Image Photo Credit: Rebecca Butala How/Getty Images