Holiday Travel Tips to Keep Spirits Bright
Excerpts from NBCCT
Paul Hudson with FlyersRights.org says about one to five percent of flights are getting cancelled and as many as 25 percent are delayed. “You cannot count that your flight that you’re booking that will actually get you there in any way,” said Hudson.
FlyersRights is a nonprofit representing passengers, trying to make travel safer and more convenient, affordable, and reliable for travelers too.
You can visit their site for more information on your rights as a passenger, plus the organization has a phone number you can call if you need advice.
Hudson says if you’re leaving Thursday or Friday, or anytime you travel, have a backup plan. Research other flights you could potentially take if yours is cancelled, because getting a hold of customer service during busy times can be a challenge.
He says specifically find direct flights that leave in the morning, so you can have more time in the day to deal with other potential problems. He reminds travelers that you are entitled to a refund it your flight is cancelled, so perhaps look into even booking a backup flight.
“To have a second ticket that is refundable or at least has a credit so if the first flight does not fly, or if it’s excessively delayed, you can use the second ticket,” he said.
Some travelers may get a refund for a “significant delay,” but that is based on a number of factors, including the length of the flight, how long you’re delayed, and your particular circumstances.
