How to Handle a Canceled Flight

It has happened to almost everyone at one time or another. Your flight has been booked for weeks when, all of a sudden, it's canceled by the airline. The best thing to do in this situation is to remain calm and handle it tactfully.

Instructions

1. Call the airline. Instead of waiting in line at the airport for a representative to rebook you on the flight, attempt to speak to a customer service official first to see what they can do for you.

2. Contact your travel agent. If your flight has been booked through a travel agency, let them know about the canceled flight and see if they can get you rebooked on the next available flight going to your destination.

3. See about any offers extended by the airline. If you are going to experience a major delay due to the canceled flight, then most airlines are going to compensate you for the inconvenience in some manner.

4. Phone anyone else that needs to know about your canceled flight. For example, if you have a driver waiting for you at a certain time at your destination, they should be informed of the change.

5. Keep busy until your new flight departs. Airlines may give you a meal voucher to use while you wait to board. You can also shop at one of the stores for a book, magazine or crossword puzzle.

Tips & Warnings

• You can usually check the status of all flights on the airport or airlines' websites. This way you can find out about the canceled flight as early as possible and get rebooked quickly.

• Don't freak out on the airline representative. It's not their fault that the flight has been canceled and they should not bear the brunt of your aggravation.