Understand the Cause of the Delay or Cancellation
First things first—figure out why your flight’s delayed or canceled. The reason can impact your next steps.
Weather, Technical Issues, or Airline Staffing?
If it’s weather-related, options are limited. A snowstorm or heavy fog can shut everything down. But if the delay is due to mechanical issues or crew availability, the airline is more likely to cover your costs or rebook you quickly. A friend once got delayed in Atlanta due to crew scheduling and ended up with a free hotel and meal vouchers from Delta.
Domestic vs. International Flights: Know the Rules
In the U.S., there’s no law requiring compensation for delays, though some airlines offer it. For flights in or from the EU, Regulation 261 may entitle you to compensation if the airline is responsible. It can add up to hundreds of euros.
Know Your Passenger Rights
Knowing your rights can help you avoid unnecessary expenses.
Airline Policies and Contract of Carriage
Every airline outlines its rules in a contract of carriage. It’s dry, but it tells you what they’ll do when delays happen—like covering hotel stays or meals if the delay is within their control.
Regional Passenger Protection Laws
In the EU, you may get up to €600 if your flight is delayed more than three hours and it’s the airline’s fault. In the U.S., you can be compensated if you’re involuntarily bumped. Understand the rules before you accept vouchers or alternate flights.
Refunds, Rebooking, and Compensation
If your flight’s canceled, you’re entitled to a full refund—even on a non-refundable ticket. For delays, rebooking and compensation vary. Ask calmly about hotel stays, vouchers, and next flight options. Polite persistence helps.
Communicate with the Airline Immediately
As soon as you spot a delay, get moving.
Use the App, Customer Desk, or Hotline
Don’t wait for announcements. Use the airline’s app, call customer service, and line up at the desk—all at once if needed. The quicker you act, the better your rebooking chances.
What to Say
Keep it short and specific: your name, flight number, and what you need. Mention any time-sensitive plans without being demanding.
Get Rebooked Faster
Know your alternatives before speaking to an agent. Check the airline’s schedule and suggest available flights. Being prepared makes their job easier—and speeds things up.
Explore Alternative Options
Sometimes you’ll need to think outside the gate.
Ask About Partner Airlines
Airlines in the same alliance or with codeshare agreements can rebook you. If American Airlines cancels, ask if British Airways or Alaska Airlines has space.
Look at Nearby Airports
If you’re stuck at JFK, check LaGuardia or Newark. A quick drive could save hours of waiting.
Should You Buy a New Ticket?
If the delay is indefinite and you need to go, book a new flight. Save receipts—you may be reimbursed by insurance or the airline.
Claim Reimbursement for Expenses
You may not get cash for your time, but you can get back what you spend.
What Airlines Cover
If the delay is their fault, many airlines will offer hotel, meal, or transport coverage. Don’t assume—ask.
Save Receipts
Take photos of receipts for meals, lodging, and transport. You’ll need them for claims. Apps like TripIt or Expensify help keep things organized.
Travel Insurance Helps
Good insurance can cover delays, hotels, food, and missed events. Many premium credit cards offer similar protection.
Stay Calm and Informed
Panicking won’t get you moving faster.
Check Multiple Sources
Use FlightAware, Google Flights, and airline apps. One may show changes before the others.
Speak with Gate Agents
Don’t rely only on announcements. Gate agents usually know what’s happening and can offer insights.
Use Lounges or Day Passes
If you have lounge access via a card or membership, use it. Day passes are also worth it for long delays—quiet space, snacks, and chargers make a difference.
Prepare for Future Disruptions
A little planning now saves stress later.
Use Credit Cards with Travel Perks
Cards like Chase Sapphire or Amex Platinum offer trip delay coverage, lounge access, and reimbursements. Even occasional flyers can benefit.
Be Ready: Apps, Insurance, Essentials
Carry a change of clothes in your bag, keep power banks charged, and have travel apps installed. These small things matter when plans fall apart.
Fly Airlines with Better Service Ratings
All carriers face delays, but some handle them better. Delta, JetBlue, and Alaska generally have stronger customer service than budget carriers.
Final Thoughts
Flight delays and cancellations are frustrating but manageable. The key is staying proactive, knowing your rights, and using every tool at your disposal. With a little preparation and the right mindset, you’ll recover time and money—and maybe avoid the same stress next time.