How to keep nerves and money at bay when the flight is delayed
Flight delays are an unchangeable event of modern aviation. Delays can lead to several problems that can spoil the mood before travelling no matter what is the reason. If you're not a regular passenger, you may feel like you have no control over the situation and don't know what to do. However, there are simple ways you can reduce the risk of a plane delay or know when it will arrive to minimize your losses.
Flight delays are unavoidable phenomena, so you should not take them personally. On the contrary, you should prepare for them in advance and act following travel experts' advice:
- Check for delays on websites;
- Don't forget to allocate some time for transfers and connections;
- Use mobile apps;
- Keep regular contact with the airline and inquire about the possibility of compensation for delays.
It is also useful to know what options are available if the flight is delayed or cancelled.
The optimal solution depends on the specific circumstances and can vary significantly depending on the passenger's experience and other factors. Remember that the most valuable thing is knowledge. Thus, don't forget about professional advice from experts.
How to track an airplane
To avoid potential problems due to flight delays, it's a good idea to download a special mobile app for the airline you're flying with. This will allow you to be notified of changes and delays long before they are announced on the information boards at the airport.
You will also be able to use the app to track your plane's path and anticipate potential delays. Some apps, such as FlightAware and Flightradar, can even show where the plane has arrived from and where it is currently located, providing additional insight into the flight's prospects. Don't forget checking the status on relevant websites and search engines as well.
Stay ahead of the curve, take advantage of modern technology and simplify your journey!
Choose morning flights
As a rule, late flights are delayed most often, especially if they depend on crew and planes from previous segments. Therefore, if you want to avoid delay issues, opt for morning hours. Plus, being able to track your plane with apps like FlightAware can help you determine where your plane came from and where it is currently located, which can provide additional information about your flight prospects.
Also, book the first departures of the day to avoid the "wave" effect, where early flight delays affect later flights. Even if your morning flight is delayed or cancelled, you usually have a better chance of reaching your destination the same day than if you fly later.
Don't forget that unforseen circumstances can occur on any flight. The key is to be prepared and act on knowledge.
Flights without connections
Choosing a direct flight can also help you avoid delays because there will be fewer planes to delay. Although a direct route may cost more, you'll be less stressed out.
If you want to avoid delays whenever possible, choose a direct flight or be strategic about when and where you connect. Choose routes that offer multiple flights per day so you have the option to rebook on another plane if something goes wrong.
Of course, some destinations may not have direct connections, but if you plan your trip in advance, you can pick your route and connection times to accommodate any delays.
Keep an eye on the weather
Weather can have a significant impact on delayed departure or arrival, so it's worth checking the weather of your departure and landing locations when choosing connecting flights.
If you're flying through different cities, it's worth making sure the route passes through an area with more favorable weather to minimize the possibility of delays due to weather conditions.
It's also important to monitor the weather forecast at your departure and arrival point along your flight route to understand how the weather may affect your trip in advance.
However, not all flight delays are weather-related. Airlines can face various problems such as technical or staffing issues. So even if the weather forecast is good, you can still face delays.
As a result, all the above-mentioned tips and strategies can help you avoid many problems related to flight delays, but you can never be 100% sure that everything will go smoothly. Unplanned situations are always to be expected, so it is important to be prepared and have time and money to spare in case problems arise.
Percentage of on-time bookings
You may need information on what to do if your plane is delayed or cancelled. If these situations arise, you should contact the airline you are flying and find out what additional service they can offer. As a rule, they should offer you an alternative flight or refund your ticket.
If you are stuck at the airport for an extended period of time, ask the airport staff to find out whether the following is available in the transit area:
- hotels;
- restaurants;
- limited sleeping accommodations.
Either way, it is important to remain calm and stay informed to maximize the time and options that are available in such a situation.
Learn your rights
If your flight is delayed or cancelled, you are also entitled to compensation from the airline. Rules about compensation can vary by country and region, as well as by specific airline and ticket type.
Compensation is usually available if the airplane is delayed more than two hours, but specific rules can vary depending on the location and the airline itself. Check your airline's policies so you know your rights.
In addition, airlines may provide you with additional amenities and services:
- Free drinks and snacks;
- Wi-Fi access;
- ticket changes to an earlier or later flight.
Contact the airline to see what options are available to you if your departure is delayed or cancelled.
In general, you can use a variety of strategies to avoid flight delays, such as choosing a morning flight, choosing a direct connection and taking weather conditions into account. However, no one can guarantee that everything will go smoothly, so it is important to know your rights and insist that you respect them in case of flight delays or cancellations.
Compensation for long waits
As practice shows, passengers may have many options for compensation or reimbursement of expenses related to flight delays or cancellations. It is important to find out airline's policies before purchasing a ticket and know your rights as a passenger to take advantage of all available options.
If your flight is delayed or cancelled, there is no need to worry or panic. Usually, airlines provide various options and passenger services that can help you cope with a delayed or cancelled flight. Check with the airline staff to see what options are available to you.
Finally, it's worth remembering that flight delays and cancellations are something that happens frequently when travelling by air. It's important to stay calm, have a plan B and prepare for potential trouble so you don't ruin your trip.
Set aside a day in case your flight is delayed
Planning a trip can seem like a challenge at any time of the year, especially if you're travelling to an important event or trying to get to your home for a long-awaited vacation.
To avoid unnecessary delays, experienced travellers recommend keeping a flexible schedule and leaving a day to spare. When it comes to Christmas and New Year holidays, it is advisable to consider possible delays and air transportation issues.
Even though many airlines have faced problems due to Covid-19, travelling can still be a great experience if you are prepared for the unexpected.
Almost all delays cause frustration, but panicking will not help change the situation in any way. Therefore, patience and a smile are the best travel companions.
Top 10 tips for flight delays
- Stay calm. Flight delays are not uncommon, so there is no need to panic.
- Contact the carrier. Find out the reasons for the delay and estimate how much longer you will have to wait.
- Patience is key. Prepare for the possibility that the delay may last for several hours. Try doing some reading, walking around the airport or just relaxing.
- Look at the schedule. Make sure the new departure time won't disrupt your other plans.
- Look for food and drink. Check your options on public food, as some airports may provide free snacks and drinks.
- Notify family and friends. Let them know about your delay and estimated departure time.
- Check your flight information. Monitor your airplane status from time to time.
- Look for another flight. If the delay is too long, it may be worth considering another option or carrier.
- Contact your hotel. If you have a hotel booked in advance, let them know about your delay.
- Ask for compensation if possible. Some companies provide compensation for long flight delays and failure to fulfill their obligations.
Flight delays can happen due to various factors. Some of them, such as weather conditions, are beyond the control of the airlines. Nevertheless, carrier companies must be responsible for their service and provide passengers with the necessary information and possible compensation in the event of long delays or cancelled flights.
If your flight is delayed, it is important to remain calm, patient and follow the tips outlined in the article. Travelling can be unpredictable, but proper preparation for possible surprises will help you stay calm in imperfect situations.