Canceled and delayed flights due to COVID-19 related issues and staffing concerns continue to follow us into the new year. Thousands of flights have been affected by COVID cancelations or staffing concerns, and there is no end in sight to the disruptions and uncertainties.
When flights are canceled by the airline, consumers are always entitled to a full refund. This includes a refund of any bag fees or extras, such as additional legroom for a seat. If the airline offers a voucher in the place of a refund, ask about expiration and blackout dates. Airlines may also have additional restrictions on the use of vouchers. Consumers are not obligated to accept vouchers and may insist on a full refund instead.
Consumers may have additional benefits if they purchased the flight with a credit card that offers additional travel protection. Keep receipts for extra purchases, such as a hotel room, so they can be submitted to the airline for possible reimbursement. Typically, nearly all domestic airlines will try to accommodate passengers on the next available flight, or sometimes on a different carrier.
Use BBB’s tips to handle travel delays:
• Check delays. Travelers can check their latest flight information on their carrier’s website or via the airline’s telephone reservation system. Many times, delays don’t occur until the day of the flight and the airline must update its flight information within 30 minutes of receiving a notice of a status change.
• Check carrier and…
