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What causes airport delays? -

Many factors can cause a delay at the airport. Some of the most common include adverse weather conditions, technical issues, employee strikes, and crowded air traffic.

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Monitor weather patterns -

Be proactive when traveling and monitor the weather patterns. Even if a large storm isn't expected, check the weather in both the location you're flying from and where you're flying to.

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Check your flight status before you go -

While you're still in the comfort of your home or hotel, check the flight status to ensure everything is going according to plan. There's nothing worse than getting to the airport and discovering your flight is delayed or canceled.

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Sign up for text alerts -

Most airlines offer free text alerts that share the flight status once you buy a ticket. Consider signing up for these so you are aware and can pivot as needed.

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Flight trends -

Before you book a flight, it's advised to check out websites such as FlightAware where you can track larger flight trends across the country. This could save you a lot of time and effort in the long run and help you avoid booking a flight that might get canceled.

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If you’re already at the airport: the agent's desk -

Often, flight delays and cancellations will occur once you're already at the airport. The first thing you should do is head to the airline agents' desk and hop in line.

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Speed is key -

While you want to maintain a calm demeanor, speed is also your best friend. Ideally, you want to be at the top of the line so you have a greater chance of being able to rebook your flight.

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Calling customer service -

While you're queuing for the agents' desk, make a call to the airline's customer service number. They may be able to help you rebook your flight before you get to the top of the line. This method doubles your chances of beating the crowd and being able to rebook a delayed or canceled flight.

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Call international customer service -

A pro tip is to call the airline's international line versus the domestic one. If a flight is delayed or canceled, it's likely numerous others are also trying the domestic number. Usually, the international branch can also help you and won't have as long a wait time.

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Self-serve kiosks -

Another option is to try and use self-service kiosks. For many airlines, these kiosks give you the option to scan your boarding pass, find your flight, and make changes.

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Rebook yourself on the airline’s app -

It might also be possible to rebook through the airline's phone app. Getting creative with where you reach an agent can help your chances of successfully rebooking.

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Social media -

A final idea is to utilize social media. Try jumping on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram and message an agent there. If the account is actively monitored then they might help you or put you in contact with someone who can.

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Attitude matters: Be kind and warm -

Traveling can be a stressful time, however, you must act with kindness, care, and warmth towards other passengers and airline agents alike. If you start shouting or acting angry, you'll likely get nowhere fast.

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Do your research and come prepared -

If you see a flight is delayed or canceled, do some research. Know your options and come prepared to discuss them at the airport. If you take some of the work from the agent at the desk or on the phone, it can be helpful.

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Tips: If the price is the same, book directly with the airline -

Pro-tip: If you're booking a flight and see the price is the same or similar on the airline's site, book directly with them. This can help you avoid having to deal with a middleman in the case of a delay or cancellation. 

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Avoid layovers -

If you can book a direct flight, do so. Adding extra stops can increase the complexity of your booking and make it more difficult to rebook should a delay or cancellation occur.

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Be patient -

Though it can be stressful and time-consuming to have a flight delayed or canceled, try your best to be patient. If you are patient and calm, you'll likely think more clearly and can find a solution.

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Help from other airlines -

Some airlines have interline agreements with one another meaning that if a flight is canceled, they have the option to put you on another carrier's flight. 

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Trapped for the night: hotel request -

It is always worth asking if the airline has a policy to reimburse you for a hotel room if your flight is delayed or canceled. 

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Use airport lounges -

Many airports and airlines have dedicated lounges where you can go and at least relax. Many have snacks, beverages, and larger chairs or benches you could nap on. It's not a perfect solution but it might be the best option. 

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Meal voucher -

Ask your airline agent if they can reimburse you in some way for the inconvenience. If they won't provide a hotel voucher, ask for something like a meal or food voucher to offset some of the extra cost.

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Know the policies -

Take some time and get to know the policies your particular airline has in place for delayed or canceled flights. For example, Delta Air Lines will provide a hotel voucher in some situations when the delay is between 10 pm and 6 am, according to CNN Travel.

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Credit card perks -

Many credit cards offer their clients protection when traveling. For example, if a flight is canceled and you used a particular credit card to pay for the original flight, you might be able to get a reimbursement.

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Travel insurance -

Most flights offer the option to purchase additional travel insurance. While it might seem unnecessary when purchasing the flight, it could help you out in the long run.

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Receipts -

It's advised to keep receipts for things you buy at the airport after your flight is delayed or canceled. There's a possibility you could later submit these expenses for reimbursement. However, it's likely the airline would only cover basic expenses so don't get too wild with alcohol or expensive meals.

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US Department of Transportation refund policy -

According to CNN Travel, the US Department of Transportation says you're entitled to a refund for the cost of your ticket in the event of a cancellation, "significant delay," or "significant change" to your flight if you choose not to travel. However, the word significant is still up for interpretation so proceed with caution.

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Know your EU flight compensation rights -

According to Europa.eu, if your flight is delayed and you arrive at your final destination with a delay of three hours or more, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Be sure to check your rights as an EU citizen or when traveling internationally. 

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Join airline loyalty programs -

An airline loyalty program might be what saves you. Sometimes you will have better options in terms of compensation for a delayed or canceled flight.

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Buy trip delay insurance -

There is a specific type of insurance known as trip delay insurance that covers the additional expenses you might incur when you experience airline delays. While not every delay is eligible, it's worth checking out.

Sources: (CNN Travel) (NerdWallet) (AirClaim) (European Union)

See also: You'll be safer knowing these essential airplane facts

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