Flights getting delayed, cancelled: Here’s what to know

CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) – With the government shutdown continuing into its fifth week, air travel may become more challenging.

Travel experts are recommending that people stay up-to-date on their flight status and have a backup plan. Flight disruptions are expected to increase as the shutdown not only continues, but air traffic controllers are also expected to miss their first full paycheck on Tuesday.

“You know, I mean, nobody wants to work for free. Their job is stressful as it is. And then to add the stress of no paycheck on top of that,” said Terry Burgick of Southwick.

As the government shutdown drags on, the strain on federal workers, including those critical to aviation safety and security, is working without pay, leading to increased sick calls and slowdowns at airports nationwide. Just on Sunday alone, more than 8,800 flights in the U.S. were delayed, and 193 cancellations were recorded, according to FlightAware.

To minimize frustration at the airport, AAA states to make sure you’re signed up for alerts with your airline, especially through their app, so that you can find out if your flight is delayed and how late it will be. Experts add to keep in mind that it’s sometimes difficult for airlines to estimate the total duration of a delay during its early stages.

“Generally, if your flight is delayed or canceled, the airline will give you the option for an alternative flight or they’ll try to book you on a different flight or potentially with a different airline,” said AAA Northeast Senior Spokesperson Mark Schieldrop.

The US Department of Transportation states that if you find a flight on another airline, ask the airline if it will endorse your ticket to the new carrier. But there is no rule requiring them to do this.

If your flight is cancelled, most airlines will rebook you on their first flight to your destination at no additional charge. If your flight is cancelled, most airlines will rebook you on their first flight to your destination at no additional charge.

Travelers whose flights are cancelled for any reason are eligible for a refund if they choose not to no longer fly. It’s also recommended to have travel insurance in case you’re struggling to get a full reimbursement, and for other added benefits. “If you have to rent a car or fly out of a different airport or if you have issues with your luggage or even if you have to eat a few additional meals, in the meantime, you’ll get compensated for that,” added Schieldrop.

A Bradley International Airport Spokesperson told 22News that, since the shutdown, there hasn’t been any impact yet to operations or any disruptions to flight schedules. They add, “It’s important to note that if an airline delays a flight, it can be due to several factors, such as maintenance, crew scheduling, and weather. Not all delays can be attributed to the government shutdown. Jamaica, a popular travel destination, is facing a major threat from Hurricane Melissa, which is expected to make landfall there on Tuesday, which could cause further flight disruptions.

In a statement to 22News, Bradley International Airport stated, “When it comes to significant weather events, schedule changes are at the discretion of the airlines – not the airport. Policies for impacted travel can also be different from airline to airline. Anyone scheduled to travel to Jamaica or the Western Caribbean in the coming days should be in contact with their airline to find out what their options are in the event of a cancellation.”