Flights are continuing to be canceled as airlines struggle with pandemic-related staffing woes and weather-related challenges. Thousands of flights have been affected, and there is no end in sight to the disruptions.
As airlines continue to try to accommodate stranded passengers, the Better Business Bureau is providing some guidance to travelers who may be seeking compensation and refunds for cancellations.
BBB is asking consumers to keep the following tips in mind when handling travel disruptions:
- Check delays – Travelers can check their latest flight information on their carrier’s website or via the airline’s telephone reservation system. Many times, delays don’t occur until the day of the flight and the airline must update its flight information within 30 minutes of receiving a notice of a status change.
- Check carrier and credit card terms – While federal regulations don’t require airlines to reimburse expenses such as rooms or food in the event a flight is canceled or severely delayed, the carrier and credit card companies may have different policies. Purchase tickets with a credit card that offers trip protection or travelers insurance and check individual airline policies.
- Keep documentation – Keep receipts and records for expenses incurred as a result of a significantly delayed or canceled flight. These may be needed later to recover expenses.
- Check the carrier’s website – Most airlines allow consumers to initiate refunds directly on the carrier’s website. Using a website may help a consumer obtain a refund or rebook a trip much faster than waiting for a consumer service agent in person or on the phone.
- Rules are different for foreign flights – Flights that were canceled while in another country will be affected by the laws of that nation. Check with the local country’s department of transportation while traveling internationally.
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