Have you ever arrived at an airport, only to find out your flight has been delayed – or even cancelled – due to bad weather? In this blog post, we’re offering tips on how to navigate through the storm of travel plans and unexpected weather events.

1. Check your flight before leaving the house.

To reduce possible inconvenience, make it a habit to always check the status of your flight before leaving for the airport. Some airlines will have information on their website or social media, or you can call the airport to see if there are any unexpected delays. Remember: just because the weather is good in your area, doesn’t mean there isn’t a storm where your plane originated from.

2. Once at the airport, find out your options.

During exceptional circumstances, airlines may sometimes waive change or cancellation fees – ask if that is a possibility in your particular circumstance. You may want to see if you can be put on a waiting list for the next available flight, too.

3. Contact your credit card and/or insurance provider.

Your credit card or insurance provider may cover costs during unexpected weather events – call to check. Keep copies of receipts for any additional expenses you incur due to the delay and/or cancellation.

4. Talk to your travel agent.

If you booked your flight with a BC-licensed travel agent, contact him or her for assistance as they will be able to help you with your options for rebooking your trip. And while our office is responsible for BC’s Travel Assurance Fund, it’s important to know it doesn’t cover circumstances when the travel is not provided due to natural disasters, pandemics, bad weather or other circumstances beyond the control of the travel supplier.

ADDITIONAL READING:

Cruise control: how Joan’s vacation was saved by a travel agent
Tips for booking travel online
Travel insurance – the basics