The Federal Aviation Administration says weather is important. Main causes of flight delays. But last summer, most of the delays were man-made, according to data. Department of Transportation Statistics. Between June and August last year, 8% of delays were caused by airlines, and about 5% were caused by aircraft problems. national aviation system, which includes air traffic control issues. According to BTS data, weather-related delays were less than 1%.
The FAA recently took steps to proactively prevent potential disruptions this summer. We allow airlines including: Delta Airlines, United Airlines, American Airlinesto reduce the number of flights Instead, they use larger aircraft that can accommodate more passengers.
Michael McCormick, assistant professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical College and former FAA control tower operator, said the change would help “reduce the risk of encountering delays and cancellations.”
The agency also 169 new routes announced Along the east coast is a more direct route, the report said.
But that doesn’t mean things don’t fall apart, it’s important to know your rights.
American airlines are no need to compensate Regarding traveler delays and cancellations. However, all 10 major airlines have said they will rebook passengers on another flight if the situation is under the airline’s control, and will pay for meals if travelers wait more than three hours.
The Department of Transportation tracks delays and publishes refund and cancellation policies for circumstances within its control. Airline Customer Service Dashboard.
If rules recently proposed by President Biden and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg take effect, airlines could soon be required to provide cash, meals and hotel accommodation for airline delays of three hours or more. There is
Travel advisor usually recommends that you consider travel insurance to cover flight delays and check your credit card’s policy on travel accident coverage. Monitoring airline apps and opting in for text updates is also a good idea, he said. If your flight is delayed, it’s best to be near the gate.
If you’ve reached frequent flyer status or have purchased a premium ticket or priority status, the check-in counter has a priority line or a phone number to get you there faster, said founder James Ferrara. said Mr. Intertravelthe global travel advisor network.
Many airlines offer robust and responsive customer service through Twitter. But that’s not the only way to reach them. Co-founder Scott Keys said calling the airline’s international phone line will reduce the congestion when slowing down. Going.com, a website that advertises travel deals. Delta also has a dedicated hotline for travelers planning flights in the next 48 hours, Keys added.
Self-rebooking online and through airline apps has also become easier, experts say.
McCormick advised travelers to make alternative plans in case a flight doesn’t go well, evaluate their connecting flight options and choose flights “wisely.” He advises avoiding routes that require transfers at airports where cancellations and delays are common due to summer weather, such as thunderstorms and hurricanes. “Choose another flight,” he said.
Ferrara said one common rule of thumb for summer travel is to book flights that depart before 3pm, adding that cancellations and delays tend to occur later in the day. . Ferrara said staying at home or “consider driving” is always an option on holidays when cancellations and delays are more likely to occur.
Take non-stop flights if possible and don’t check bags, says Keyes.
