Weather can disrupt airline travel any time of year, whether it’s spring thunderstorms, summer heatwaves, or winter snowstorms. While delays are never ideal, preparing ahead and staying flexible can make them more manageable. Here’s what you can do to navigate weather-related travel challenges effectively.
Keep an eye on the weather
Before heading to the airport, check the forecast for both your departure and arrival locations. Severe weather at either end—or even at connecting airports—can lead to long delays or cancellations. Knowing this in advance lets you mentally prepare for a potentially extended travel day. Being aware of the weather also helps set realistic expectations, so you’re less likely to be caught off guard when delays happen.
Stay Informed
Watching the information boards at the airport or the gate is often the last place you’ll learn about flight delays. There are several ways to get up-to-the-minute information way before the people sitting around you:
- Sign up for text alerts from the airline—When making your reservation, you’re asked for your phone number. While I’m usually hesitant to give out my cell phone number, this is one instance where I’ll provide it to the airline. Flight delays, gate changes and other information are texted out much faster than they are posted at the airport.
- Get the smartphone app for your airline (and update it regularly). If you have your frequent flyer information updated on your phone and activate push notifications, the airline will send instant notices about flight changes.
- Follow your flight on your own. While getting alerts from the airline is nice, getting your own information is usually more efficient. I use FlightAware when tracking flights – it’s one of the 7 apps you should have when traveling. Not only can you check the up-to-the-minute status of your flight, but you can also track your incoming flight. If your flight is showing on time but the plane you’re supposed to leave on is running an hour late, it’s just a matter of time before your flight is delayed. Knowing doesn’t make it any better, but you can manage your time more efficiently at the airport.
- TripIt Pro provides the same information as FlightAware, but you don’t have to do any of the work. A year’s subscription usually costs $49, but there are 20% offers, like the one with this link. If you travel frequently, it’s a small price to pay for an excellent service. Again, it’s one of those 7 apps you need to have for traveling.
Stay Comfortable During Delays
Even with the best preparation, delays are inevitable. The key is to make yourself as comfortable as possible while waiting. If you have access to an airport lounge, it’s a great place to relax with amenities like comfortable seating, free snacks, Wi-Fi, and charging stations. Many premium credit cards, such as the Amex Platinum Card, include complimentary lounge access, which can turn a stressful situation into a more manageable one.
If lounge access isn’t an option, find a quiet corner of the terminal to settle in with a book, a movie, or some work to pass the time. Packing snacks and portable chargers in your carry-on can also make the waiting more bearable.
What to Do About Connecting Flights
If your delay affects a connecting flight, you’ll need to act quickly. The airline app is often the fastest way to rebook yourself on a new flight. If that doesn’t work, visit a customer service agent or a lounge desk, where lines tend to be shorter.
Another option is contacting the airline via social media, text, or phone. Some airlines may also allow you to be “protected” on a later flight, meaning you’ll keep your original reservation but have a backup if you miss the connection. While there’s no guarantee, higher-status travelers are sometimes accommodated on partner airlines, so it’s worth asking.
Planning for the Worst
Occasionally, you may be stuck overnight due to a canceled flight or missed connection. In this case, check if your credit card includes travel delay insurance, as many premium cards cover hotel stays and meal costs. Apps like HotelTonight can help you find affordable last-minute accommodations near the airport.
Keep in mind that airlines aren’t required to provide compensation for weather-related delays. You can check the Department of Transportation’s website for a breakdown of your rights, but in most cases, airlines will only offer vouchers or accommodations as a courtesy, not an obligation.
Stay Calm
It’s important to remember that airline employees cannot control the weather or crew availability. While delays are frustrating, showing patience and kindness to gate agents and customer service representatives can go a long way. They’re often handling hundreds of re-bookings at once, and a little courtesy might result in them going the extra mile to help you.
Delays and cancellations are never fun, but being informed, prepared, and flexible can make the experience more bearable. What’s the worst weather-related travel delay you’ve faced? Share your story below!
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