What to Do If Your Flight Is Delayed: A Traveler’s Guide
Recently, I was traveling on Christmas Eve 2024, and I got caught up in the American Airlines ground stop delays.
First, it was a nervous “Will I make my connecting flight?” moment. Then it quickly shifted to, “Will my connecting flight ever leave to my destination?”
It felt like a never-ending cycle of uncertainty as the hours ticked by.
If you’ve ever experienced a major flight delay, you know exactly how stressful it can be.
But after that Christmas Eve ordeal, I learned some helpful tips for making the most of a frustrating situation.
Here’s what you can do if you find yourself in a delayed flight situation:
1. Stay Calm and Stay Informed
Take a deep breath. The worst thing you can do is panic. Flights get delayed for all sorts of reasons—weather, mechanical issues, or air traffic delays—and getting upset won’t speed things up.
Check the departure board regularly, but also use your airline’s app or website for real-time updates. They often send notifications about delays and gate changes directly to your phone.
2. Check with the Airline
If the delay is significant, don’t hesitate to approach the airline counter. Ask for details about the delay and inquire about any compensation they may offer, such as meal vouchers or hotel accommodations if you’re stuck overnight. After my flight was delayed for hours, I found that most airlines are willing to assist passengers, especially when the delay is beyond your control.
If you experience a delayed flight, try this helpful tip: text yourself the two-letter designator of your airline along with your flight number. Later, check your text message to preview the flight status. This method can sometimes provide you with the latest updates from flight status even faster than the airline’s own notifications.
3. Stay Connected
Wi-Fi is your best friend in this situation! While waiting, catch up on emails, scroll through social media, or download some movies or shows to pass the time. If you’re traveling for work, it’s a great chance to check off a few tasks.
If you’re on vacation, this might be a good time to plan some fun details of your trip.
4. Budget-Friendly Airport Easting Strategies
When I was traveling through Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), I found food can indeed be quite expensive. Airport dining options often come with premium pricing, with some meals costing well over $16 USD for an egg sandwich and chips.
Snack Preparation
To manage costs and hunger during travel, consider:
- Bringing your own snacks through TSA
- Packing non-liquid, TSA-approved foods
- Carrying an empty water bottle to fill after security8
Affordable Airport Dining Options
At LAX, you can find budget-friendly choices like:
- McDonald’s and Subway in most terminals1
- Starbucks breakfast sandwiches
- Grab-and-go kiosks with sandwiches and salads
Recommended Snacks to Pack
- Power/Breakfast Bars
- Dried fruit
- Nuts
- Gummy bears
- Popcorn
Pro Tips
- Check the arrivals level for potentially cheaper shopping
- Look for duty-free and clearance sections
- Consider buying snacks in bulk for potential discounts
Remember that while airport food can be expensive, a little planning can help you stay fueled and save money during your travels.
Please note: Be aware of strict agricultural regulations to prevent the spread of invasive pests and diseases. When traveling to or from the Hawaiian Islands, travelers must be aware of specific fruit and plant transportation rules.
5. Explore the Airport
Many airports have more to offer than just gates and security lines. Walk around and see what’s available—cool shops, local art exhibits, or even a spa for a quick massage. A little exercise and distraction can make the time pass quicker, plus it gives you a nice break from just sitting around.
Daniel K. Inouye International Airport features unique cultural gardens that offer travelers a tranquil escape from the bustling airport environment. Located in Terminal 2 and near the E Gates, these gardens showcase three distinct cultural landscapes: Hawaiian, Chinese, and Japanese
6. Know Your Rights
If your delay is really long, you may be entitled to compensation, depending on the airline’s policies and local regulations. In my case, after hours of waiting, I learned that certain delays entitle passengers to things like food vouchers, hotel stays, or even cash.
It’s worth knowing your rights so you can ask for assistance if needed.
7. Rebook or Reconfirm
Before you leave the airport, be sure to confirm the status of your flight or ask about rebooking options if you’ve missed your connection. In my case, after a delay of several hours, it was important to make sure everything was set for my new flight. You don’t want any surprises later on.
Flight delays are a part of air travel, but they don’t have to ruin your day. With the right approach, you can turn those frustrating hours into an opportunity to relax, recharge, and even explore. Safe travels, and may your flights be on time!
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