Why are Flights Cancelled?

Flight cancellations are an unfortunate aspect of travel that most people have encountered at least once in their lives. These cancellations can occur due to various reasons such as inclement weather or technical problems. It is not a single cause but rather a combination of factors that lead to flight cancellations. Airlines are operating at maximum capacity, scheduling numerous flights to meet the high demand that has accumulated over the past few years. Additionally, airport construction, weather-related delays, and staffing shortages further contribute to the challenges. With such a delicate balance, even a minor disruption can set off a chain reaction, causing a cascade of flight cancellations.

The resumption of travel following the COVID-19 pandemic has presented significant challenges for airlines, forcing them to make difficult operational choices. As a result of early layoffs or departures for various reasons, airlines continue to face a shortage of staff and require time to rehire and rebuild their workforce. Furthermore, the hiring process for other airline personnel, such as gate agents and baggage handlers, takes longer due to the heightened security checks mandated for airport personnel. The shortage of air traffic controllers further compounds the situation, limiting the number of flights that can operate simultaneously. These staffing issues have created a turbulent environment as airlines navigate the complexities of post-pandemic travel.

Flight cancellations are sometimes inevitable when faced with mechanical problems or severe weather conditions. If there is no flexibility to bring in additional staff, flights are often canceled instead of being delayed. Although you have no control over these factors, there are ways to effectively manage flight cancellations and make the most out of an unfortunate situation.

Flight Cancellations – How to Handle like a Pro?

1. Choose the right flights to avoid any chances of cancellation

While seamless travel cannot be guaranteed, selecting the right flight can increase your chances of a smoother journey. If you haven’t booked your flight yet, consider opting for nonstop options. Having fewer flight segments in your itinerary reduces the opportunities for complications to arise. If nonstop flights are not available, choosing early departure times is the next advisable strategy. As the day progresses, minor issues can have a cascading effect, potentially resulting in more significant delays or even cancellations.

If you have already made a flight reservation, it is worth exploring the possibility of switching to a safer alternative without incurring any penalties. Depending on the airline you are traveling with, there may be options available to make this change free of charge.

While budget airlines have their advantages, it may not be the ideal time to experiment with them, unless they have a reliable track record. Opting for airlines that offer extensive re-routing options increases the likelihood of finding an alternate schedule that is relatively convenient. It is important to monitor your flight status closely and make necessary changes if you have the flexibility to do so before your flight gets cancelled. Acting promptly will allow you to access a wider range of available seats before they are booked by other travelers. Additionally, your airline might even provide a fee waiver in cases where operational issues are anticipated.

2. Think Of different paths yourself instead of finding a single solution

Experienced travelers who encounter unexpected delays are often adept at swiftly finding solutions due to one key factor: they proactively explore multiple avenues for resolution instead of relying on a single solution.

When faced with travel-related issues, it is essential to seek assistance promptly and through various channels. Actively engage in resolving the situation by simultaneously reaching out to the airline’s customer service via phone, standing in line for assistance at the airport, and checking the airline’s mobile application. By utilizing multiple avenues, you increase the likelihood of obtaining a rebooking option or solution more swiftly. It is advisable to proceed with the first available option that comes through any of these channels.

Taking a few minutes to search for alternative flights in any situation is a worthwhile endeavor. Being aware of the available options empowers you to communicate your preferences effectively, rather than relying on an agent to propose a solution that may not suit your needs. It is courteous to politely suggest the alternative flights you have discovered, rather than waiting for the agent to conduct research on your behalf.

It is also important to note that certain airlines may delay flights incrementally, leaving you uncertain about your situation. If it becomes apparent that you will miss your connecting flight, it is proactive to request rebooking if another option is available.

3. Know and remember your rights

Take the time to review a detailed guide that provides comprehensive information about passenger rights and the obligations of airlines in the event of flight delays or cancellations. This guide will provide you with valuable insights into the steps you can take and the assistance you are entitled to in such situations. Being well-informed about your rights empowers you to advocate for yourself effectively and ensures that you receive the appropriate support from the airline.

The Air Passenger Protection Regulations provide additional safeguards for travelers who experience flight cancellations and delays. Previously, the regulations stipulated that refunds would only be provided for disruptions within the airline’s control. However, the updated regulations now require airlines to offer a full refund upon request in cases of delays lasting three hours or more or flight cancellations that are beyond the airline’s control, provided that the passenger cannot be accommodated on the next available flight (whether operated by the same
airline or a competitor) within 48 hours. These regulations aim to ensure that passengers are fairly compensated when faced with unforeseen circumstances.

Situations within the control of an airline:

• Challenges faced due to shortage in staff

• Flight consolidation due to low demand

• Disruptions caused due to scheduled airline maintenance

• Pre and post flight checks conducted for identifying certain potential issues

Situations Not within the control of an airline:

• Natural conditions such as bad weather

• Medical emergencies

• Security issues

• Orders given by certain applicable authorities

Airlines have specific obligations towards passengers when facing flight delays or cancellations. They must maintain transparent communication, informing passengers about the reasons for disruptions and their entitlement to assistance and compensation. Airlines are also required to provide regular flight status updates every 30 minutes until new departure arrangements are confirmed. In addition, if necessary, they must offer complimentary food, beverages, and overnight accommodation to affected passengers, ensuring their comfort and well-being during the situation. These measures aim to uphold passenger rights and ensure a positive travel experience.

In cases of inconvenience caused by flight delays or cancellations, airlines have an obligation to provide compensation to affected passengers, up to a maximum of $1,000. The specific amount of compensation is determined based on the extent of the delay in the passenger’s arrival at their destination, compared to the scheduled arrival time stated on their original ticket. This compensation policy ensures that passengers receive appropriate remuneration for the inconvenience experienced due to the airline’s actions.

Larger airlines have to pay their passengers:

• $400 – In case a passenger arrives 3 or more but less than 6 hours late.

• $700 – In case a passenger arrives 6 or more but less than 9 hours late.

• $1000 – In case a passenger arrives 9 or more hours late.

Smaller airlines have to pay their passengers:

• $125 – In case a passenger arrives 3 or more but less than 6 hours late.

• $250 – In case a passenger arrives 6 or more but less than 9 hours late.

• $500 – In case a passenger arrives 9 or more hours late.

Note: Passengers can claim for inconvenience for any interruption they faced which is within the airline’s control, even after accepting a refund ticket,

4. Buy a good travel insurance plan

Although travel insurance cannot prevent flight cancellations, it can provide coverage for unforeseen expenses that may arise due to such issues. While it does not offer protection against flight disruptions themselves, travel insurance can offer reimbursement for additional costs incurred as a result of these unexpected situations.

If you experience a trip delay, trip delay insurance can come into effect after a certain number of hours and cover necessary expenses incurred during the delay, such as meals, overnight accommodations, or transportation to a nearby hotel. On the other hand, trip cancellation insurance can reimburse prepaid costs for your planned vacation if you are unable to reach your intended destination at all.

Purchasing travel insurance in advance is crucial since it’s not possible to buy coverage once delays have already occurred. Our comprehensive travel insurance guide can assist you in understanding various policy options, enabling you to make informed decisions on the appropriate coverage to purchase for future trips.

If you haven’t purchased travel insurance, it’s worth checking the credit card you used to buy your flight. Some credit cards provide basic travel insurance as a built-in benefit for cardholders. Premium travel credit cards often offer this perk. By referring to your card’s benefits guide online or contacting your card issuer, you can confirm the extent of coverage you are eligible for.

5. Manage your delayed or lost baggage

Even after reaching your destination, there is still a possibility that your luggage may not arrive with you. A recent study conducted by Compare the Market revealed that around 32% of surveyed Canadians experienced lost luggage during air travel. However, it’s reassuring to know that over 93% of those individuals eventually managed to retrieve their misplaced bags.

While traveling with only carry-on luggage is the most effective way to prevent this problem, it’s not always feasible. If you must check bags, employing smart strategies can increase the likelihood of both you and your bags arriving together. Allowing sufficient time for baggage check-in enables handlers to ensure timely loading onto the plane, minimizing the risk of separation.

If you have concerns about your checked bags getting separated, utilizing tools like AirTags and other tracking devices can assist you in locating them. If you prefer not to invest in such devices, ensure that the identification tag on your bag contains accurate and up-to-date contact information. It is important to include a reachable email address if your phone number may not work internationally. By taking these measures, you can increase the chances of recovering your bags if they go astray during your travels.

Last options to manage a flight cancellation

1. Report a complaint with the related Airline

Completing an online form may seem insignificant, but it ensures that your message reaches the appropriate department instead of getting lost in a generic email inbox. This increases the likelihood of receiving compensation in the form of a travel voucher or bonus miles, which can be utilized for future travel. The specific amount of compensation may differ based on factors such as the duration of the delay, the type of ticket purchased, and your elite status with the airline.

2. Report with the regulator

If you are dissatisfied with the airline’s response, you have the option to file a complaint with the regulatory body responsible for handling airline customer affairs. However, there is currently a significant backlog of 33,000 complaints, with the processing time taking approximately 19 business days and an extended duration of up to a year for the complaint to be reviewed by an agency facilitator.

3. Report for a chargeback to the credit card company

A credit card chargeback is a recourse to seek a refund from your card issuer when all other options have been exhausted. To initiate a chargeback, you will need to provide evidence of eligibility for a cash refund and demonstrate that you have made reasonable attempts to obtain a refund directly from the vendor. It’s important to note that accepting a new flight itinerary from the airline may render you ineligible for a credit card chargeback, as the airline has fulfilled its obligations according to the terms and conditions of your ticket purchase.

Conclusion

Taking proactive measures can minimize the risk of flight cancellations by selecting more reliable flight options and obtaining travel insurance for potential claims. Advocating for your needs can also expedite your journey, while travel insurance provides coverage for unforeseen expenses incurred during your travels.