Spectacular view of ash plume & lightning above Iceland's Eyjafjallajökull volcano, source of the recent flight delays.
Given travel disruptions throughout much of Europe and other parts of the world following Iceland’s massive volcanic plume, it is the perfect time to discuss the topic of weather-related airline delays and cancellations. While extreme weather conditions demonstrating Mother Nature’s wrath are beyond everyone’s control, there are things you can do as traveler to reduce the negative impact of prolonged flight delays and cancellations.
Expecting the unexpected can go a long way toward helping you successfully manage travel delays and minimize stress:
- Before departing on your trip, know your airline’s policy for cancellations due to adverse weather.
- If you hear about probable weather delays and haven’t left for the airport, call your airline or visit its web site for the latest information.
- If you live nearby, go to the airport and speak with an airline representative. Work directly with your airline to reschedule any cancelled flights. Airlines have the most up-to-date seat information and know if they are scheduling extra flights and diversions to other airports that remain open.
- Use one of the airport’s often underused kiosks. These can be much faster than calling the airline’s 800 number which is likely to be overwhelmed with callers.
- As soon as you learn about a flight cancellation, check the departure screen and find the gates for the next two flights to your destination. Go directly to these gates and begin making inquiries about getting on the stand-by list.
- Fly as early in the day as possible, especially in the summer. You’ll be much less likely to encounter delays due to severe weather.
- Allow extra time whenever traveling, and if you absolutely must be somewhere by a certain date and time, try to fly at least a day earlier.
- In the event of extended weather delays, take a carry-on bag with sufficient necessities to last you at least two days.
- Bring phone numbers for a couple airport hotels so you can call them quickly if you need to book a room for a night or two.
- Have a debit or credit card with you to cover any additional expenses you might incur while stranded (i.e. meals, lodging, clothing, etc.).
- Be patient and flexible. Remember the airlines can’t control the weather or “acts of God” any more than you can.
Here are links to two web sites / travel blogs that include additional information to help you prepare for unforeseen flight disruptions:
- http://airtravel.about.com/od/flightdelayscancellations/a/policiescommon.htm
- http://www.tripwolf.com/en/blog/2010/04/14/flight-delays-a-captains-advice/
Wishing everyone happy, safe and on-time travels!
