Passengers returning to the skies in 2022 face more delayed flights. With the chain of delays likely to continue, travel experts have put together the best tips on what to do if your flight is delayed, as well as what to do while you’re waiting.
Keep expense receipts
Not everyone knows that it is quite realistic to compensate for expenses, such as food and drinks, while you are forced to wait for your flight at the airport. Make sure you have all of your airport purchase receipts to help you in your attempt to claim a refund from the airline. However, airlines only pay for “reasonable” expenses, so you’re unlikely to get money back for purchases like alcohol, expensive meals, or a “presidential suite” at a hotel.
Clarify your rights as a passenger
If your flight is delayed, you may be eligible for compensation or a refund, so take the time to review your passenger rights. In the event of delayed flights departing from the European Union (EU), you are almost 100 percent protected. If your flight is delayed by more than two hours for flights under 1500 km, three hours for flights between 1500 and 3500 km, and four hours for flights over 3500 km, the airline is obligated to take care of you.
In the event of a flight delay outside the EU, your rights will vary and depend on the airline’s terms and conditions, so be sure to check the terms and conditions before arriving at the airport. By the way, not all countries pay for delays. Strangely, in the United States, for example, airlines are not required to compensate passengers in the event of delayed or canceled flights.
Contact airline support
As soon as you become aware of your flight delay, please contact the airline’s customer service. It’s important to note that flight delays that are out of the airline’s control may void your right to compensation, so be sure to check the circumstances before attempting to file a claim or complaint. Customer Support should also provide you with advice on the first steps you need to take right now.
Do not panic
Flight delays are no doubt stressful and frustrating, but staying calm can help prevent further disruptions. Be kind to those around you, whether they are fellow travelers or airline employees, as everyone involved feels overwhelmed by the current situation.
Visit Duty-Free Shops
Modern airports are filled with duty-free shops large and small, as well as souvenir shops and favorite designer brands. If you have free time, why not take advantage of great deals and do some shopping. Well, or just do not try to compare prices with “normal”.
Arrive at the airport prepared
For any flight delay, it’s important to arrive at the airport prepared with essentials such as an extra change of clothes, snacks, drinks, phone chargers, toiletries, and entertainment. We recommend that you bring an eye mask and earplugs with you so that you can rest while waiting for the flight.
Read a book
A great way to pass the time is to immerse yourself in a good book, forgetting about what is going on around you. If you don’t have your own, check out any of the books for sale at the airport?
Explore the airport
If you are unable to leave the airport because the delay is not too long, take the time to explore the facilities at your airport. At first glance, the idea is so-so but try it. Modern airports are designed in such a way as to provide a good rest for passengers: cafes and restaurants, luxurious waiting rooms, winter gardens, spas, cinemas, and even swimming pools.
Find out more about the destination
Likely, you have already familiarized yourself with the future route, but why not take the time to explore the lesser-known sights. Determine the purpose of your trip by asking yourself questions such as: “What are the top three things I want to see?” or “What new foods do I want to try?” Surely you will learn a lot of new and interesting things.