It’s happened to all of us: intensive travel planning or an important meeting, purchasing flights and procuring hotels, rearranging our daily lives for this business, educational, or leisure travel opportunity. 

And then, canceled flights. 

Amidst all this disruption, what do you do? 

It all depends on the timing of the canceled flight; the earlier the flight is canceled, the less stress it is for you. If it is less than two weeks before departure (called short-notice cancellation) and your flight is not rerouted by the airline, you may be able to receive compensation from the airline. The closer to departure that the flight is canceled, the more you’ll have to quickly do to be able to travel.

Note: A canceled flight is different from a delayed flight. Canceling is when the airplane does not leave the ground whatsoever. 

Here’s how to stay on top of your booked flights

• Monitor your email for flight updates
• Check the airline’s website, weather forecasts, and Flightaware misery map for potential delays and cancellations
• Preparation: have airline phone numbers (including their international numbers) saved in your phone
• Have your reservation code handy
• Have both digital and hard copies of your travel documents
• If at all possible, travel with only a carryon
• Arrive early, even if the flight update says the flight might be delayed

Create a checklist in your phone’s notes app:

Important! When the flight is announced as canceled, find out why (this affects potential flight compensation). 

First: 

Depending on how you work best, here are the first steps you need to rebook your flight. 

• Use the airline’s app to rebook
• Call the airline and rebook
• Stand in line at the airport for help with rebooking
• Use a livechat option on the airline’s website

While you are there, request assistance from the airline for meals, hotel room, and any related expenses. Keep your receipts!

Second: 

Secure lodging and transportation if you have a long delay before the next available flight. This is probably your best option if you're heading into long-haul flights, as they aren't quickly replaceable.

If you are flying with others, sort out these tasks ahead of time, so that each person can act quickly and be among the first to acquire a rental car, ride service, hotel, etc. Each person should have programmed the info they need into their phones, so you all can spring into action.

Flight Cancellation Compensation

Depending on where you are flying from, you can receive compensation for canceled flights. Check the regulations for the country you’re in, and utilize services like AirHelp for an assist.

Travel insurance

If you’re like me and prefer peace of mind in case of flight cancellations, purchase travel insurance. Do your due diligence to ascertain exactly what you are including in your travel insurance. 

Another form of travel protection that isn’t travel insurance? Use your credit card to purchase your flights. You should have coverage from them to help. Again, research before using/purchasing.