With significant flight cancellations over the last few months, travelers are starting to worry that flying may not be as reliable as it used to be. Cancellations and delays are happening a lot more frequently, which can be unsettling for those trying to reach their destination on time. If you find that your upcoming travel plans are altered by this issue, there are some things that you can do. Read on to learn more about why flights get canceled or delayed and what you should do if this happens to you:
Why Do Flights Get Delayed or Canceled?
During the holiday travel season, we saw many flight delays and cancellations. One notable instance was when Southwest Airlines canceled over 2,500 flights in one day. This led many people stranded and unsure of what to do. But why exactly do flights get delayed or canceled, you may ask?Â
Ever since the coronavirus pandemic, airlines have found themselves short-staffed, which has caused more and more cancellations and delays. Another reason cancellations and delays could occur is that airline systems can malfunction from time to time. If an airline system malfunctions, it could cause flight schedules to become altered.
What to Do if Your Flight Gets Canceled or Delayed
Stay Calm: If your flight gets canceled or delayed, your first instinct may be to panic. But this is the complete opposite of what you should do! Instead, take a deep breath, stay calm, and weigh your options. Just because your flight plans got altered does not mean you won’t reach your destination. You may still be able to get to your destination around the same time or a little bit later than you originally planned.
Consider if You Should Change Your Flight: If your flight was only delayed by a few hours, your best option might be to keep your travel plans the same and just go with the flow. But if your flight was significantly delayed or canceled, you may want to check with your airline and see if you can change your flight. Go to your airline’s service counter or call customer support and ask what other flights are available. You may find that there is an upcoming flight on their schedule that’s more suitable for your needs.
Book a New Flight With Another Airline: If you’ve tried to rebook your flight with your current airline and it just doesn’t seem to be working out, you could always book a new flight with another airline. Other airlines have different flight schedules that could work with your travel plans and may be able to help you get to your destination more quickly. Unfortunately, this could cost you more money, but if you need to get to your destination as soon as possible, this may be your best option.
Consider Alternate Forms of Transportation: You’ve tried rebooking your flight, and you can’t find anything that works with your travel plans. Now what? Another option to consider is using alternate forms of transportation. For example, depending on your destination, it may be faster and more convenient for you to drive or book a train ticket. Your travel itinerary may not always go according to plan, and sometimes the best option is to pivot and make new plans.Â
Check Your Airline’s Refund Policy: Last but certainly not least, you will want to check your airline’s refund policy. When you book your airline ticket, you have certain rights in case your flight gets canceled. A lot of times, airlines will give you a full refund or compensation if your flight gets canceled. But if your flight is delayed, you may have difficulty getting your money back. You might be able to get flight delay compensation, but that’s not always guaranteed.
If you have upcoming travel plans and need a passport, visa, or e-Visa, Swift can help! You can begin the application process on our website. If you have any questions along the way, please contact a member of our team. We’d be happy to assist you! No matter where you plan on going, we’ll get you there!
