Airlines are getting efficient day-by-day and services provided by them are getting better. The punctuality, safety standards and technology used have been improved drastically in the last few years. Apart from being a time effective mode, it is has earned the tag of being reliable also. However, at times, flights have to be cancelled due to bad weather or technical issues. Hearing the news of cancellation after flight booking just before a few days or on the journey date can be a nightmare for travellers. It may result in loss of a business opportunity or absence from important family gathering. However, there are a few steps that can be taken by travellers to deal in this situation, and here is a list of steps that needs to be taken after flight cancellation.
Request the Carrier for an Arrangement
If the flight is cancelled due to bad weather, it is advised by industry experts to postpone the journey. However, those, who cannot afford delay may file a request with the airline regarding arrangement of another one or can book cheap tickets available on that route. Usually carriers volunteer such activities, but in case any initiation is not taken by respective airline, passengers may ask for it as the alliances or associations of the carrier can adjust a few more fliers in case of emergency. However, before taking the deal offered in compensation, travellers should go through the details. Many a time, it may include several stopovers, which can prove to be pointless for people looking forward for a meeting at a specific time. In this case, they can book a new flight and apply for reimbursements.
Know Your Rights
Rules regarding cancellation with prior notice or upon arrival at the airport are different. In both the cases, compensation is provided to travellers that vary on the time of news provided to passengers. However, rules for reservation made under domestic flight offers may differ. If the notice has been given by the airline prior to two weeks of the journey date, they are not compelled to pay compensations. However, they may provide an alternative as per their convenience or offer seat in the same aircraft on a later date. They can also offer a full refund, but carriers usually try to tackle such situations by offering a seat.
However, if the airline gives notice in less than seven days, they have to offer a seat to the destination within four hours of the actual departure time or a full refund. If the journey is important for the traveller, they can go for the first one, but in case of leisure travel, the latter one is suggested as alternative flights may operate on a longer and lengthy route. When cancellation is done, passengers are offered assistance by the airline for free. Meals and refreshments have to be provided by the respective carrier along with ensuring an alternative option at the earliest possible opportunity. In case of overnight stay due to delay or cancellations, passengers are provided hotel accommodation and access to emails, telephone calls and faxes, sponsored by the carrier.
Martin Wynn
