Holiday travel already brings its fair share of stress, and when adverse weather conditions lead to flight delays, the situation can quickly turn into a nightmarish experience. Here's essential information to keep in mind in case your flight is affected by winter weather.
 

If your flight is delayed or canceled because of winter weather:

• Weather is considered an “act of God”. Airlines will rebook you on flights that are available but are not required to do much more. The issue is when flights are full, rebooking passengers can be a challenge and your rebooked flight could be days later.
   
• Check your airline’s website - or better yet, download their app - to receive up-to-date alerts on your flight status. Try these options before calling the airline’s customer service number which may result in a long wait time. If you do call, you may have better luck dialing the international or rewards phone number.
   
• Don’t book more than one flight. Duplicate bookings will not only cost you a non-refundable ticket but could also cause both flights to be canceled. Many carriers have algorithms in place to spot dupes and cancel both itineraries which could leave you with no flights at all.
   
• Know your rights as an air passenger and review your airline’s contract of carriage for information on their policies for flight delays, cancellations, and rebooking. By law, travelers are entitled to a refund when an airline cancels their flight.
   
• If travelers encounter a problem that cannot be resolved by their airline, they may wish to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Transportation or FAA. For more information, visit https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/file-consumer-complaint
   

Keep in mind for next time:

• Work with a knowledgeable travel agent, like a AAA travel agent, when booking your trip. They’ll serve as your advocate in case your flight is delayed or canceled and can help with any last-minute travel plans. They may be able to help find an alternate flight to avoid disruption of your travel plans.
   
• Consider flight travel insurance, but read the fine print to understand what it covers. Purchase coverage close to booking, and well ahead of your trip. For example, if you buy travel insurance after a winter storm is already in the forecast, you may not be covered if your flight gets delayed or canceled.
   
• Book morning flights. Early flights are less likely to be delayed and canceled, and even if they are, you have more flexibility to rebook for later that day.
   
• Be sure to include all medications, snacks, and change of clothes in a carry-on bag in case your flight is canceled after you’ve already checked your baggage.

Hoping to travel in 2024? Let AAA's expert travel advisors help you plan like a pro. They'll take care of the details and assist if you run into any issues before, during, or after your trip. 

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