A Guide to Navigating Flying During the Pandemic
Tens of thousands of flights have been canceled this holiday season throughout the United States. COVID-19’s new Omicron variant has been determined to be highly contagious. Unfortunately for many people, the virus spread rapidly among airline crew members. With a new staffing shortage, it was inevitable that multiple airlines canceled their flight, leaving hundreds of thousands of people were stranded throughout the holiday season. In addition to the virus, the New Year was far from beautiful in terms of weather conditions. Bad weather attributed to additional cancellations and chaos was rampant this holiday travel season.
Be Prepared for the Worst-Case Scenario
If you are one of the fortunate few that have left for the airport, reconsider whether you have to take this flight. While going somewhere sunny may seem nice for the holidays, it is not worth the airport chaos or the chance of contracting the omicron variant. If your flight cannot be canceled, be sure to book your flight directly with the airline. It will be easier to smooth out complications, should any arise if you book directly with the airline.
If you are traveling internationally, you will generally need both proof of vaccination and a negative COVID-19 test that is less than 72 hours old. Having these items prepared and ready will reduce travel stress and long lines at the airport. In addition, be sure to check into your flight 24 hours in advance and check if there are any delays or cancellations before leaving your house.
The U.S. Transportation Security Administration stated the number of travelers this holiday season was nearly triple that of 2020s, so expect the airport to be packed. It would be smart to arrive at the airport with an hour more than you normally would (ex. Four hours for international and three for domestic). This will reduce the stress of missing your flight through lengthy TSA lines. Check the flight status regularly for your plane and ticket before leaving your house to save yourself from unexpected cancellations.
My Flight is Delayed…Now What?
Federal law states that “a passenger is entitled to a refund if the airline made a significant schedule change and/or significantly delays a flight and the passenger chooses not to travel” but does not specify the “significant change.” Airlines generally have their own rules about delays, so be sure to check with your airline, either on their website or at the kiosk. If you still want to travel, you are entitled to nothing but the airline will try to put you on the next flight to your destination.
What if I’m Delayed Overnight?
Again, if you are delayed but intend to travel, the airline legally does not owe you anything. Luckily, most airlines have a pretty lenient overnight policy if the issue is NOT weather-related. Alaska, American, Delta, and United are among some of the many airlines that will offer a hotel stay at one of their contracted hotels if your flight was delayed due to a mechanical or airline issue. Generally, transportation to the hotel will also be provided. Be sure to check with your airline if you qualify for a complimentary hotel stay. It may not be ideal, but it is better than forking over the cash yourself.
My Flight has Been Canceled
Most airlines will offer you their next flight or alternative travel date if your flight has been canceled. If you decide to not travel, the airline will typically give you flight credit that is equal to what you paid for the flight. Although they are not obligated to, many airlines will refund you in cash if you ask. If you believe your experience deserved compensation, reach out to the airline. Do not forget to be courteous. The airline agent does not control the weather, plane, or even their company’s response.
There Are No Available Flights for Days, and I’m Stranded at a Layover
Every traveler’s worst-case scenario was likely realized by tens of thousands. This past week is the lack of available flights to their final destination. If you booked Alaska Airlines, you might be in luck. If your destination is more than 100 miles away, the airline will put you up in a hotel for your distress and provide round-trip ground transportation. Of course, their policy is able to change without notice, so speak to a staff member first before expecting a way home. If you did not book Alaska Airline, but you did use a credit card with Trip Delay/Interruption coverage, you will likely be covered for a rental car. But before you hop in line with everyone else who is trying to rent a car at LAX, call your credit card to confirm.
Traveling During the Pandemic
Traveling during a pandemic will always be stressful. While it is best to avoid it, that is not always possible. Remember to treat airline members with kindness and safe travels.
