According to the Federal Aviation Administration, FAA’s Air Traffic Organization (ATO) provides service to over 45,000 flights and 2.7 million passengers daily. Airline flight schedule changes are commonplace as carriers push to maximize aircraft utilization. Airlines can decrease the frequency of service to specific destinations or adjust flight departure and arrival times.
Flight schedule changes are more pronounced today as the world grapples with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Airport shutdowns, banned international flights, and falling demand for travel lead to carriers canceling or adjusting their flight schedules. Besides the pandemic, other factors such as weather patterns can force delays and cancellations.
Learning About a Flight Schedule Change
Airlines often utilize different strategies to inform their customers about flight changes. Most carriers will send out an email informing you about the change regarding your flight. It could be an insignificant adjustment such as a different arrival time or a new flight number with the same time. It is critical to periodically check your itineraries to note any modifications.
You may also opt for flight tracker apps that can notify you about changes on your flight. You may have to pay a subscription fee to get alerts about seat, gate, or schedule modifications. You simply need to add your flight details, and the platform automatically searches up for any changes.
The last option may be quite laborious as it is a manual model. You can keep regularly checking on your airline flight schedule. You can check updates on airport websites such as the Springfield Illinois Airport for the monthly schedule. For the most updated information, you may have to contact your carrier.
As a paying passenger using the Abraham Lincoln capital airport, it’s important to know how to handle such a situation. Here are several tips and strategies to help you deal with flight schedule changes:
3 Tips to Manage Flight Schedule Changes
1. Do Nothing
Contrary to what most believe, a flight change isn’t always a bad thing. The flight schedule change may not be significant enough to warrant any action from your side. However, some carriers may need you to acknowledge and accept the change. Others may just update your new flight information.
2. Ask for a Refund
The US Department of Transportation indicates that all US and foreign carriers are obligated to provide a prompt refund to passengers when the airline cancels the flight or issues a significant schedule change and the passengers decline the alternative provided by the carrier. The airline may also provide redeemable vouchers to their clients instead of a cash refund.
3. Find a Different Routing
At times, the airport flight schedule change may be significant, affecting your itinerary. If you still wish to make the trip, the airline can accommodate you on a new routine — even one that may be more expensive than your original ticket. In such situations, you may be in the driver’s seat. You can push the carrier to book you in a flight that works better for you.
Flight schedule changes are often frowned upon. At times, you may not need to act at all. Some cases may push you to request a refund or a rerouting. Staying informed can help you understand all the options available at your disposal.