Airplane travel can be stressful, and nobody wants to experience delays or cancellations. There can be numerous reasons for these occurrences in the airport from poor weather to technical difficulties.
Cancelling a flight is a last resort for airlines. It’s safe to assume that if your flight is heavily delayed or cancelled, there’s a valid reason.
Here are four things to keep in mind if you’re stuck at the airport due to delays or cancellations.
Budget Accordingly
It’s always a good idea to travel with more money than you think you’ll need. Unless you intend to spend the night at the airport, that extra money can go toward a hotel and food.
Familiarize Yourself With The Policies Of Your Airline
Different carriers have their own policies where delays and cancellations are concerned. You definitely want to familiarize yourself with these prior to travel.
If your flight is affected by inclement weather, your airline isn’t necessarily obligated to put you up in a hotel or provide a meal voucher. This is because the airline isn’t at fault for poor weather. However, if the flight is impacted by staffing issues or technical problems, you may be entitled to compensation.
Lastly, if you want that extra bit of security, consider travel insurance.
Breathe And If You Can, Laugh
Taking a deep breath and finding humor in the situation can take off the edge.
Being held up at the airport longer than expected is an inconvenience. However, it isn’t the end of the world, and most airports offer enough amenities to meet the needs of the modern traveler. If you happen to be stuck in Changi Airport in Singapore, that may not be so bad. This one of a kind facility isn’t just where planes take off and land. It turns heads with its indoor playgrounds, shops, restaurants and so much more.
Don’t Be Rude To Staff
Whether in the airport or on the plane itself, airlines will stand by their staff in almost all cases. Yelling at an employee, or worse, will get you nowhere. They’ll be more inclined to help you if you’re patient.
If your flight is cancelled, you can usually get a refund or ask to book another flight. Booking another flight with the same airline may be the least stressful choice, especially if you’ve paid for over-sized baggage or extra leg room.