'Tis the season to be Jolly, until your flight is cancelled. Taking the cheer out of the holiday season. Add the extra millions of folks traveling this year! It can easily turn into a Grinchy time. Thrillist put a list out of things you'd be entitled too if your flight was canceled. Bringing back the jolly groove of the holiday season.
General tips / advice when flying:
Try to book through the airline, so it's easier to adjust plans if /when your flight is delayed or cancelled, If you booked through a 3rd-party, download the airline's app so checking in and making switches is easier.
Try to travel light. Have your VAX card / COVID-19 results / info. Mask it up! Get to your gate early. Pack your patience. Be kind to airline workers. Remember, Holly Jolly Holidays for all!
If your flight gets delayed / cancelled, do this ,,,
Your flight is cancelled and you do not rebook a flight. You are entitled to a full cash refund under federal law. If you had multi-stops, you'd get refunded for the legs you didn't fly. You can also get a refund if there are significant changes or delays to your schedule. Although a delay is determined on a case-by-case basis. Two hours or more seems to be a standard. Check your airline's website for details. This only works if your flight is CANCELLED! If you fly after a delay or be rebooked after cancellation, NO REFUND!
Don't take the Vouchers! Take the CASH!
If your flight is cancelled, big time delayed or overbooked, airlines are supposed to get you a check on the spot. Avoid the voucher temptation, when cash could be coming your way.
If the airline gets you to where you're going within an hour of your original arrival time, then you won't see compensation.
Here's where compensation comes to you. If you arrive 1-2 hours past your original arrival time on domestic flights, and between 1-4 hours for international flights, the airline must pay you. It's said to be at minimum, 200% of the one-way fare to your destination with max of $775! Domestic flights arriving more than 2 hours the original time, it's 400% of a one-way fare. The DOT - US Department of Transportation requires the compensation be in CASH! Up to $1350! Cheers to knowing your fly-rights.
Check out tips for 24 hour cancellations, switching flights, refundable fees and lots more. May holiday cheer stay with you during your travels. Be safe! Take care of each other!
