The U.S. airline industry has faced many challenges recently, including grounded aircraft, a shortage of air traffic controllers, and the possibility of strikes. In addition, various adverse weather conditions have caused significant flight delays and cancellations, making these times especially challenging for travelers without travel insurance.
While many travelers may have thought the worst of the weather was behind them, a spate of recent storms across the country has caused further disruption, especially during the busy spring break season.
If your flight is affected by bad weather, you may be wondering what your rights are, whether you're entitled to compensation, and how to prepare for future weather disruptions.
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It is important to understand each airline's policy, as each airline determines what happens in these situations and what rights passengers have. To help passengers understand their rights and options, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) provides a consumer dashboard that provides a comprehensive overview of these policies.
For example, all 10 major U.S. airlines will offer passengers the ability to rebook flights on the same airline at no additional cost, according to the dashboard. Additionally, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and United Airlines all offer passengers the ability to rebook flights on partner airlines at no additional charge. However, this service does not apply to Allegiant Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, or Spirit Airlines.
Investing in travel insurance is one of the best ways to protect yourself from the hassle of seeking coverage and understanding airline terms and conditions. Although it cannot prevent flight disruptions caused by weather, it does act as a safety net to ensure that you are compensated regardless of the airline.
Travel insurance offers a variety of benefits that can greatly improve your travel experience. Experts from travel insurance company InsureMyTrip say those who purchase insurance can receive many benefits after a flight interruption, in stark contrast to those who fly without insurance.
Travel Insurance / Photo: William Potter/Shutterstock
For example, if you have travel insurance, you may be reimbursed for meals you eat while your flight is delayed. In contrast, if not, it depends on the airline's specific policies.
Airlines may refuse to provide meal vouchers or refunds to passengers if their flight is delayed due to reasons beyond their control. This also applies if your flight is interrupted due to weather-related issues.
Passengers with travel insurance can also receive reimbursement for additional accommodation costs they would have to pay if their trip is extended due to flight cancellation. Trip interruption coverage may also reimburse additional airfare required for emergency repatriation.
Uninsured travelers, on the other hand, must once again rely on the airline's various policies, and prepaid and non-refundable hotel room rates are often not refunded.
Finally, those who purchase travel insurance can receive a refund if they miss their cruise or tour departure due to a delayed or canceled departure flight. At the same time, trip interruption coverage may cover additional flights needed to catch up on your trip.
Again, those without travel insurance must rely on their airline's insurance, which will not cover the cost of missing an outside cruise, tour, safari, or entertainment event due to flight disruption. More likely.
