Name of the blog | Tips on Dealing with Delayed Flights

After having properly prepared for your upcoming trip by carefully reviewing your cheap travel options, including cheap airplane tickets, discount hotel rooms, cheap auto rentals, discount travel deals, and cheap vacation packages, few things are as frustrating as having to deal with your flight being delayed. The following are steps you should take immediately after being informed that your flight has been delayed so that you can get your travel plans back on track as quickly as possible, according to Daniel Bortz: • Start by contacting your airline to find out why your flight will not be taking off on time. There are five types of flight delays: 1. The delay could be due to circumstances within the airline’s control, such as maintenance or crew problems, aircraft cleaning, luggage loading, or fueling. 2. Weather issues caused by inclement weather can result in an airline deeming it being unsafe to fly. 3. National Aviation System issues such as airport operation concerns, heavy traffic volume, and air traffic control problems. 4. Late arriving planes sometimes result in delays. 5. Security delays can result in the evacuation of a terminal or concourse, re-boarding of a plane because of a security breach, inoperative screening equipment, and excessively long lines resulting in waits of over 29 minutes in screening areas. While there are no federal laws requiring airline to provide passengers with money or other forms of compensation when their flights are delayed, knowing what the cause is can help passengers act accordingly. For instance, if a flight is late because the plane is being refueled, a short delay can be expected. However, if there is bad weather forecast your wait will likely be longer and your flight might be canceled. • Download your airline’s mobile app prior to departing so that you can check your departure status. Some apps allow passengers to change itineraries without having to speak to an agent in person or by phone, which can save a lot of time. • Download the AirHelp app which helps passengers check to see if they are eligible to receive compensation for a delay or cancellation. • Check your flight’s connecting status. Sometimes your airline may be able to put you on a different plane to help reach your final destination. • Find out, prior to booking your ticket, if your credit card provides trip interruption. Select credit cards reimburse passengers for expenses, including meals and hotels, if your delay is more than 12 hours or requires an overnight stay at a hotel and your airline will not cover the costs. • File a complaint on social media. When flights are delayed airline phone lines and airport staff often get overwhelmed. You may be able to get a faster response if you lodge a complaint on Facebook or Twitter. To improve your chances of getting a response quickly include appropriate hashtags in your post and see what is trending. If a lot of other passengers are tweeting #JetBlueFail, for example, follow their lead. • Take a friendly, composed approach when dealing with airline representatives. An agent will be far less inclined to offer you a hotel or meal voucher if you are unpleasant or rude.. • Find fun ways to fill your time. Many airports offer a wide choice of activities and exceptional food. For example, Chicago O’Hare Airport offers an interactive play area for kids that feature child sized model airplanes and a control tower. If you a facing a long delay, consider going out and doing some sightseeing. www.cheapfares.com

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