Suddenly, finding out that your flight has been canceled a few hours or minutes before boarding can be very frustrating, especially when you’re working with a schedule. It’s easy to panic, but it’s much better to consider diverse avenues like seeking compensation through services like Airhelp and getting a refund from the airline. Keep on reading this guide to learn what you should immediately do if your flight is canceled.
Contact the Airline Immediately
The first thing you should do is contact the airline. There are different ways to do this, and its best to try all of them at once until one works. Consider accessing the airline’s app on your phone as most airlines offer mobile apps that allow you to rebook your flight for free. You can also call an agent and if you’re still in the airport, it’s a good idea to get help from the front desk.
If this is a period of mass disruption, then you can make the call while in the queue, considering different avenues of help. Making a call to the airline’s international number might be costly, but this actually allows you to get help quickly. Depending on the reason why your flight was canceled, you might be allowed to rebook and take the next flight, or you might have to wait longer.
Get Overnight Accommodations
If there are no other options for traveling that day, it’s important to book a hotel room before they’re all taken.
During times of mass travel disruption, most people would try to stay close to the airport. So, determine if you need overnight accommodations based on when the next possible flight is.
Secure Your Luggage
When a flight is canceled, it’s easy to panic and become confused, especially if you’re already at the airport. But in all the bustle, don’t forget your luggage. If you’ve already booked your luggage, talk to the airline representative about getting it back so that it’s not lost in the process. If you still have your luggage, find a safe place to keep it, whether in a locker or in your hotel room.
Ask for a Refund
Although it’s not easy to get a refund, you’re entitled to one per federal law if the airline cancels your flight and forces you to change your travel plans. You’re actually meant to get a cash refund, but most airlines have a lengthy and frustrating refund process, which can cause travelers to give up. Also, some airlines offer credit for future travel instead of cash. Before accepting any refund or gift, check the restrictions and conditions of use.
Seek Compensation
After all the stress that you might have gone through due to a canceled flight, it’s within your right to ask for compensation on top of the refund.
You can check the airline’s website or app or the Department of Transportation Cancellation and Delay Transport. Some airlines offer meal vouchers or overnight accommodations. There are also services like Airhelp that can help you contact the airline to receive compensation for the canceled flight.
It can be very annoying to have a flight suddenly canceled, as this can completely change your plans for travel. But don’t just sit still. Whenever it happens, contact the airline immediately and keep yourself safe by booking a hotel. Don’t forget your luggage, and if the flight was canceled with little notice, consider getting compensation and a refund.
