Having your flight cancelled can be a stressful and frustrating experience. Whether it’s due to weather conditions, technical issues, or unforeseen circumstances, it can throw a wrench in your travel plans. However, there are steps you can take to make the most of the situation and minimise the impact on your trip. Here are 10 things to do if your flights cancelled.
10 Easy Things to Do if You Have Your Flight Cancelled
Stay Calm
When you find out that you have had your flight cancelled, it’s natural to feel a range of emotions, from frustration to anger and anxiety. However, it’s important to stay calm and composed to deal with the situation effectively. Take a few deep breaths and remind yourself that getting worked up won’t change the situation. Instead, it’s better to focus your energy on finding a solution.
If you’re at the airport, look for an information desk or the customer service counter to get more details about the cancellation and available options. If you’re not at the airport, contact either AirHelp or the airline’s customer service hotline or use their mobile app to get updates on the situation.
Once you have a better understanding of the situation, try to keep a positive attitude and remain patient. Remember that flight cancellations are often caused by factors beyond the airline’s control, such as bad weather, technical issues, or air traffic control problems. By staying calm and collected, you’ll be in a better position to deal with the situation and find a solution that works for you.
Check for Alternative Flights
Check with the airline or travel agent to see if there are alternative flights available. If there are, try to book a seat on the next available flight.
It’s important to act quickly as alternative flights may fill up fast. Be prepared to be flexible with your travel plans, as the alternative flight may not have the same schedule or destination as your original flight.
It’s also important to note that the airline may not always offer an alternative flight, especially if the flight cancelled was due to circumstances beyond their control, such as bad weather. In this case, you may need to look for alternative airlines or transportation options to reach your destination.
If you have travel insurance, check with your provider to see if they can assist you in finding alternative travel arrangements.
Use Social Media
Many airlines have customer service teams that monitor their social media accounts. Reach out to the airline on Twitter or Facebook to see if they can help you rebook your flight.
Additionally, social media can also be a great tool to stay updated on the status of your flight. Follow the airline’s social media accounts for real-time updates and information on any changes or cancellations. You can also check social media platforms like Twitter for updates from other travellers who may be experiencing similar flight cancellations and can share information on alternative options or accommodations.
Social media can be a valuable resource for staying connected and informed during these situations.
Talk to the Airline Staff
If the airline staff is unable to rebook your flight or offer an alternative option, ask if they can provide you with accommodation or meal vouchers. Many airlines have policies in place that require them to provide assistance to passengers in the event of having your flight cancelled. However, keep in mind that the availability of these services may depend on the reason for the cancellation and the airline’s policies.
If the airline staff is unable to provide any assistance, ask for information on how to file a claim for compensation. Depending on the circumstances of the cancellation, you may be entitled to compensation under European Union (EU) regulations or other relevant laws.
It’s also worth checking if your travel insurance covers flight cancellations. If so, contact your insurance provider to see if they can provide assistance and if you’re eligible for any compensation or reimbursement.
Remember to keep all of your documentation, including your flight tickets, boarding passes, and receipts for any expenses incurred as a result of the cancellation. These may be required when making a claim for compensation or reimbursement.
Overall, while flight cancellations can be frustrating and stressful, it’s important to stay calm and take proactive steps to minimise the impact on your travel plans. By being prepared, flexible, and resourceful, you can turn having your flight cancelled into an opportunity to explore new destinations or make the most of your unexpected downtime.
Find Out About Compensation
Depending on the reason for having your flight cancelled, you may be entitled to compensation or a refund. Find out about your rights and what you’re entitled to.
If your flight was cancelled due to reasons within the airline’s control, such as mechanical issues or overbooking, you may be eligible for compensation under the EU Regulation 261/2004. The amount of compensation you can receive varies depending on the length of the flight and the delay caused by the cancellation. Make sure to keep all relevant documentation, such as your boarding pass and any communication with the airline, to support your claim for compensation.
If you have had your flight cancelled due to circumstances outside of the airline’s control, such as extreme weather or a natural disaster, you may not be entitled to compensation. However, the airline may still offer you a refund or alternative travel arrangements. Check the airline’s policy on cancellations and refunds, and don’t be afraid to ask for help or clarification from airline staff or customer service representatives.
Book a Hotel
If you’re stranded at the airport for an extended period, you may need to book a hotel room. Check with the airline to see if they can offer you a discounted rate.
If the airline cannot provide a discounted rate, consider using a hotel booking website or app to find affordable accommodations nearby. It’s important to act fast as hotels can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel times.
Try to find a hotel that is close to the airport or provides a shuttle service, so you can easily get back to the airport when your flight is rescheduled. Keep all of your receipts and records of expenses, as you may be able to claim them for reimbursement.
Reorganise Your Travel Plans
In case your flight cancellation causes you to miss a connecting flight or accommodation booking, you’ll need to reorganise your travel plans. It’s best to contact your hotel or rental car company to see if you can make alternative arrangements.
In some cases, you may be able to get a refund or rebook for a later date without incurring any penalties. If you’re traveling as part of a tour group or with a travel agency, be sure to inform them about the cancellation so they can help you reorganise your travel plans accordingly. Keep in mind that it may take some time to make new arrangements, so be patient and flexible.
Explore the City
Exploring the city is a great way to make the most out of a cancelled flight. Take the opportunity to visit some of the local attractions or landmarks that you may not have had time for otherwise. Check online or ask locals for recommendations on things to see and do in the area. You can also take a stroll through the city and discover its unique culture and history.
Take the chance to try some local food, shop for souvenirs, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk around the city. This unexpected adventure can turn your cancelled flight into a memorable experience. However, don’t forget to keep an eye on your belongings and stay safe in unfamiliar surroundings.
Stay Connected
Staying connected is crucial when your flight is cancelled. Make sure your phone is fully charged and you have a way to access the internet. Many airports offer free Wi-Fi, so take advantage of it to check for updates on your flight status. You can also use your phone to reach out to the airline or your travel agent to get more information about your options.
Keeping your family and friends informed about your situation is also important. They can provide emotional support and help you make any necessary arrangements.
Stay Patient
It’s important to remember that flight cancellations can be a frustrating and stressful experience. However, keeping a cool head and staying patient can make all the difference. Remember that airline staff are doing their best to assist you and hundreds of other passengers, so it’s important to be polite and patient when interacting with them.
Consider bringing a book or downloading a movie on your phone or tablet to help pass the time. If you have any work to catch up on, this could also be a good opportunity to do so. Take the time to relax and take care of yourself during the delay, and try not to let the situation get the best of you.
By following these tips, you can make the most out of a flight cancellation and come out the other side with a positive attitude. Remember to stay calm, explore your options, and keep a good attitude, and you’ll be back on your way in no time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, having your flight cancelled can be a frustrating experience, but there are steps you can take to make the most of the situation. Stay calm, check for alternative flights, use social media, talk to the airline staff, find out about compensation, book a hotel, reorganize your travel plans, explore the city, stay connected, and stay patient. With these tips, you’ll be able to navigate the situation and get back to your travels as soon as possible.
