Delayed flights are unfortunately the result of numerous factors, whether it be weather, mechanical equipment, software problems or a myriad of other factors. During mu 20+ years of traveling I have come to realize that a delayed flight or even cancellations are more common than one would think. Those flying once or twice a year, may in fact never experience a delay or canceled flight due to their infrequent travel, but for those on the road more often, its almost expected. And when a flight leaves on time, I always find myself relieved.
After the immediate notification of having a delayed flight, I always gauge my expectation of whether we will actually take off or not, on the reason for the delay. Mechanical issues can sometimes be resolved in a timely manner, other times its not possible. On multiple times I’ve been inside a delayed aircraft with each update from the flight deck indicating a further delay. And then when the issues have been resolved, even worse news comes down indicating the delays combined with the estimated flight time have pushed the crew beyond the number of actual hours in an operational day that they are legally allowed to work.
If your flight is delayed within the U.S. or the EU, certain policies and regulations are in place to help ensure that you will be compensated. And there are certain non airline affiliated companies to help you recover compensation for delays including AirHelp. Here are some of the most common action items to consider taking, following a delayed flight:
1. Always check the airline policy of the airline you are flying with. Policies vary depending on the airline, but they will highly specific information in regards to offering compensation for delays.
2. You have a right to file a claim if your flight is significantly delayed (usually over 3 hours) and the delay occurs within the U.S. or the EU. And you may be entitled to compensation as pursuant to specific regulations (such as EU 261/2004, or the US Department of Transportation’s regulations). Claims should be filed directly with the airline or a company that assists customers in getting compensation, such as AirHelp.
3. I’ve mentioned this before in some of my posts. Get travel insurance which covers flight delays. And check and see where this insurance kicks in; its usually for delayed flights starting at 4 hours.
4. When booking your flight, check and see if your credit card offers travel benefits including compensation for flight delays. Or contact your credit card issuer and ask them directly.
5. And like anytime you file a travel related claim, whether its for a rental car, or airline related, be sure to document everything possible including keeping digital or printed copies of boarding passes, perhaps screen shot the listed delay from one of the online flight path services and note any communication you have with the airline about the delay.
6. Be familiar with your passenger rights. For U.S. flights, these are outlined by the U.S Department of Transportation. They list certain rights and compensation guidelines you will need to follow.
7. And sometimes you will just have to negotiate with the airline. Be friendly with a cordial tone, despite the frustrations of the situation. It will go a lot further in your communication. You are within your right to ask for even more compensation, whether it be monetary or material.
In summary, be prepared for flight delays and cancellations. They happen far too often. But with the proper preparation, despite the hassles of travel, you will have piece of mind that it can be possible to be compensated for your valuable time in case of extended airline delays.
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