TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Flight cancellations can be caused by various factors, such as bad weather, mechanical issues, and extraordinary events like the recent incidents. Passengers need to know what to do when a flight is cancelled, including their rights and compensation.
The security situation in the Middle East has disrupted the global aviation sector. The closure of airspace has left thousands of passengers stranded at various international transit hubs. Major airlines like Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways have been forced to suspend operations to ensure the safety of passengers and aircraft crew.
Contacting the airline
According to Chris Harrington, Managing Director at hoppa, the first thing passengers should do when they find out their flight is cancelled is to immediately contact the airline. Passengers can go directly to the customer service desk. But if the line is long, they can use the app or call the customer service center.
"In most cases, the airline will have to make an alternative plan for you. When you manage to speak to a member of staff, see if they can rebook you on a later flight," Harrington said, as quoted from Express UK. Airlines can book flights through different providers.
Additionally, check the travel insurance documents. This is because some policies will cover hotel expenses, airport transfers, alternative flights, and meals. Ask the airline about vouchers for cancelled flights.
If the cancellation is caused by the actions of the airline, passengers are entitled to compensation. However, in extraordinary circumstances beyond the airline's control, compensation is unlikely to apply. "In these cases, passengers are still entitled to a refund or rebooking, as well as care and assistance such as meals and, if necessary, overnight accommodation," Harrington said.
Booking tickets from another airline
As for rebooking cancelled flights, time is crucial. Immediately after receiving the cancellation notice, Dollar Flight Club founder Jesse Neugarten suggests opening the airline's app or website to review rebooking options-even before queuing at the departure gate.
"Airlines usually load alternate flight options right into the app when a cancellation happens, and sometimes you'll even get rebooking offers without asking," Neugarten said, as quoted from Travel+Leisure. Options tend to fill up quickly because everyone is vying for the next flight, which is why it's crucial to act fast.
Passengers can also consider the possibility of switching airlines. "Sometimes, it's smarter to take the refund and book a new flight on a different airline," he said.
Imanda Zahwa contributed to this article
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