My flight was canceled due to suspension – here’s what I did to avoid being stranded
Airlines have begun canceling flights in the coming days as the Federal Aviation Administration has ordered a 10% reduction in flights operating in the United States due to the longest government shutdown in history and the resulting staffing challenges. In fact, more than 800 flights have been canceled today, several times the normal number.
Fortunately, my Sunday flight from Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), operated by United Airlines, was one of thousands of flights that were voluntarily canceled due to the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) order.
Here’s how I learned about the flight cancellation and how I tried to still get to my intended destination.
If your flight is cancelled, being proactive is key to trying to rebook
I elected to receive communications from United so I was notified of this change via text message three days before my scheduled trip. The carrier may have also sent an email, but that email (assuming there was one) was most likely sent to the agency that booked my flight because I was in Florida for a media event.
The notification I received via text message stated that my flight was canceled and the airline was trying to rebook us and would let me know if they could find a new flight.
However, I wouldn’t just wait to possibly find another option for me – nor would I recommend that if you really want to get where you’re going.
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So, I logged into my United Airlines account immediately After receiving the cancellation notice and searching for other flight options the same day as I knew there was probably at least one plane full of people trying to do the same thing by now. Thankfully, there were other options and I was able to select another flight online within about three minutes of receiving the cancellation notice at no extra cost. United notes that so far, about 50% of affected travelers have been able to get on another flight within four hours of their original flight…but that also means 50% of travelers aren’t that lucky.
If I want to get a refund, I can do that. In fact, United is currently offering refunds to all passengers who requested a refund but chose not to fly between November 6 and 13.
Most airlines have rolling cancellations within a few days of departure, so keep an eye on your booking, opt in to all notifications, and act quickly if your flight is canceled to increase your chances of getting to where you want to go.
If you’re planning to travel during the government shutdown, here are some additional tips:
