After rushing to the airport and spending hours on a plane, there are few things more frustrating than not making your connection. Beyond increasing your total travel time, missing your next flight can also come with certain financial implications and even cause issues with the arrival of your baggage. As annoying as all of this may be, it doesn’t have to ruin your trip—read on to learn more about what to do next time you miss your connection.
Stay Informed
As soon as you realize you’ve missed your connection, head to the airline’s customer service desk to ask about alternatives. Have your booking details and travel documents on hand, including your passport and any receipts for checked luggage. If the line is long, use your phone to check the airline website for information as you wait, or try calling the customer service number. Airlines will often re-book passengers on the next available flight, but seats may be limited, so it’s important to act fast to secure your spot.
Know Your Rights
Every airline has different policies regarding missed connections. Some may only be willing to rebook passengers on the next flight, while others may also provide accommodation, meals, or transportation vouchers depending on the cause of the delay. In any case, understanding your rights as a passenger can help you to negotiate fair compensation. We also recommend keeping a record of all communication and receipts should your airline require them for reimbursement.
Consider Your Options
If your airline is unable to offer another flight within an appropriate time frame, you’ll need to explore other options. Check nearby airports for available flights, even if it means taking a short train or bus ride. Alternatively, it may be worth looking into connecting flights with partner airlines or making an additional stop in another city. The more flexible you’re willing to be, the sooner you’re likely to reach your destination.
