What to do if your flight is delayed or cancelled due to bad weather

If you fly frequently, it's highly likely that at some point you'll face a flight delay or even cancellation due to bad weather conditions. This is a very stressful scenario that one can encounter during travel, as most of the time there's no solution when you're trying to get from point A to point B.

In this article, we'll give you some useful tips on what to do if your flight is delayed or cancelled due to bad weather.

We will offer you some practical solutions and suggestions for managing such a situation, especially if you frequently encounter delays at airports due to bad weather. There are ways to deal with this situation.

# Look for an alternative route

You can't change your departure location or your destination, that's obvious. However, if there's a way to connect your flight through different cities to reach your final destination, you might have some options. For example, if you're flying from Santorini to Thessaloniki via Athens and the problem is caused by bad weather in Athens, you might be able to modify the route to avoid the delay.

# Book the first morning flight

Yes, this is a tough choice, but it's a great way to almost certainly reach your destination. Typically, morning flights have the best on-time arrival statistics. Why is this the case? Because the first flights of the day usually haven't yet been affected by any problems that might arise later. Bad weather affecting flights in the morning in one area will often affect nearby areas later in the same day. Flight delays and cancellations usually unfold in a domino effect as the day progresses. So, choosing one of the first flights is a good option, especially in the winter months.

# Have a backup plan

You might not be able to avoid the possibility of a weather-related delay. However, it's a good idea to be prepared for such situations. For instance, you could have looked for a nearby airport hotel or, if possible, checked train or bus schedules to have an alternative mode of transport.

# Call the airline and confirm your flight on the day of travel.

If you see that severe weather is approaching while you're still at home, you can contact your airline or check their mobile app for possible announcements and confirm that your flight is still scheduled to operate. It's better to wait in the comfort of your home rather than being at an airport with many other delayed travellers, worrying about if and when you'll depart.

If you're not at home but staying in a hotel and the news reports potential bad weather and that many flights may not operate, it's a good idea to contact your hotel to see if you can extend your stay or, if there's no availability, if they could help you find alternative accommodation.

# What can be done if you are already at the airport?

Sometimes, you might have already boarded when they announce that the flight is cancelled due to weather conditions, and this is the worst-case scenario. If you know the weather will be bad before you leave home, we recommend bringing some snacks and making sure all your devices are charged. If you have a good book or a film to watch, the wait will be easier. This is also why we always keep our phone charger in our hand luggage and not in our checked bags.

# Ask airline staff for updates on the situation, but always politely.

If you can quietly ask an airport employee what's happening, you might get some inside information. Perhaps not everyone will be equally cooperative, but you lose nothing by asking a simple question. The worst case is to remain at the airport for hours and eventually be informed that your flight won't depart until the morning.

# What happens if your flight is eventually cancelled? Manage your expectations.

The worst thing you can do is lash out at an employee. It's certainly very frustrating not being able to reach your destination, but no employee is to blame for that. When flights are cancelled, all passengers face difficulties and disruption.

Airlines usually offer the option to stay in an airport hotel, which has been pre-arranged for such situations. It might not be the most luxurious hotel, but it will provide comfort. Typically, if this happens, you'll receive a voucher and be transported by bus directly to the hotel. Then, you'll be assigned to one of the first available flights in the morning or your flight will be rescheduled.

Can you claim compensation if the airline cancels your flight?

If you prefer to get your money back when the airline cancels your flight, then you will be refunded. Usually, this refund takes about a week if you choose this option. Occasionally, airlines offer vouchers for future travel to passengers who have experienced such delays or flight cancellations. However, this doesn't always happen, nor are they obliged to do so. If you remain calm and polite, you are much more likely to secure a better deal.

And we don't want to give you the impression that you should be meek about this. You should ask for some compensation for your inconvenience. You can say: "I know it's not your fault, but is there anything else you can do to mitigate my inconvenience?" This gives the airline employee an opportunity to help you as best they can.

Finally, you should remember as many details as you can about the itinerary. Note down what each employee has told you, what announcements have been made, and at what times all this happened.

On any journey, weather conditions can cause disruption and unforeseen events. While a flight cancellation due to weather can be frustrating, with the right preparation and approach, you can minimise your inconvenience.

When facing a flight cancellation due to weather problems, communicating with the airline and being informed about your options is crucial. Depending on the airline's policies, you can choose between cancellations with refunds, flight rescheduling, or possible compensation. Always remember to remain calm and be polite when dealing with airline staff.

Also, take into account the tips for preparing before your trip. Having extra supplies and entertainment with you, such as books or films, can make your wait more comfortable.

Finally, the experience of a weather-related flight cancellation can highlight the importance of flexibility in travel. While it can be disappointing, you can make the best of this situation with the right approach and attitude. Whether you enjoy an unexpected stay in an airport hotel or decide to explore a new city, the adventure continues, and your positive attitude can make all the difference. Happy travels!