Hot Topic: How to deal with flight disruptions during the US summer travel season?

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As the world prepares for a busy summer, a record 4.7 billion people are expected to travel by air. As demand increases, the global aviation industry is preparing for potential chaos at airports. A recent Amadeus report found that “flight disruptions are exceeding historical norms,” ​​a trend that looks set to continue in the United States. Here’s what you need to know to prepare and protect your travel plans this summer.

Factors that cause flight disruptions

AirHelp CEO Tomasz Pawliszyn points out that there are several factors that lead to flight delays and cancellations, including high demand for summer travel, overscheduled airlines, and airport and airline understaffing. Additionally, Christina Tunnah of World Nomads points out that extreme weather caused by climate change and frequent strikes in Europe are making the situation worse.

Daniel Durazo of Allianz Partners USA said he expects aircraft shortages due to Boeing production issues will also increase the risk of delays and cancellations. Given these challenges, it’s important for travelers to prepare for potential disruptions.

Impact on air travelers

Travelers are already feeling the impact: TripIt’s Jen Moyse reports that in a recent survey, 48% of respondents experienced a flight disruption, such as a delay or cancellation, in the past six months, which is up from the previous year and indicates that the problem is growing.

Airlines and airports are working hard to minimize disruptions, but as Pawlyshyn points out, the travel industry is still recovering from the pandemic and is now facing additional challenges due to concerns over aircraft safety, including dozens of planes being grounded after a panel on an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737-9 Max jet blew off mid-flight, affecting flight availability.

How to prepare for flight disruptions

Get travel insurance

Travel insurance won’t prevent delays, but it can help cover the costs of unexpected disruptions. Coverage varies widely between providers and plans, so it’s important to choose a policy that suits your needs. Christina Tuna advises that some policies will cover airline strikes but not understaffing issues, and coverage amounts can vary widely.

Stay up to date

To prepare for potential flight disruptions, download airline apps and the FlightAware app. These tools provide real-time updates on flight status and alert you to delays and cancellations before the airline officially announces them.

Plan for flexibility

Plan your travel well in advance as disruptions are likely. If you have an important event, arrive at your destination a day or two early. Pack essentials like a change of clothes, medications, and snacks in your carry-on luggage.

Book strategically

Choose an early morning flight to increase your chances of being able to rebook on the same day if your flight is delayed or canceled. Flying direct reduces the risk of multiple delays. Check the flight’s performance with FlightAware to make an informed choice.

Know your rights

The U.S. Department of Transportation has announced new regulations that will require airlines to automatically refund passengers in the event of significant delays or cancellations, but the rules won’t go into effect until October 2024. Until then, domestic passengers have limited rights, with airlines often offering rebookings, hotel rooms, and meal vouchers at their discretion.

For international flights, passengers have more rights under the Montreal Convention and European Union regulations. These laws mandate compensation for delays and cancellations, but enforcement can be difficult.

Additional tips for a smoother travel experience

• Be patient and politeThe travel industry is still recovering from labor shortages, so patience and courtesy go a long way when dealing with service employees and other travelers.
• Document everything: Keep a record of why your flight was delayed or canceled, the compensation provided, and receipts for expenses. This documentation is essential when making a claim to your travel insurance company or airline.
• Check country-specific regulations: If you are traveling internationally, be sure to familiarize yourself with the passenger rights laws of the countries you depart from and arrive in. These regulations may provide you with additional protections and compensation options.

Due to increased demand for travel, staffing shortages, climate change and aircraft manufacturing delays, flight disruptions are expected to be a major issue this summer. Staying informed, planning flexibly and understanding your rights can help you navigate these challenges and protect your travel plans. Remember, patience and preparation are key to getting the most out of your trip, even with potential disruptions.