Here's an travel tip! In the event of a airline strike
or labor disruption, the following air travel tips will come
in handy for airline travelers who might be affected. The
best piece of advice: Get friendly with your travel agent.
Book your airline flight early. For consumers who will be traveling during the time of a potential
airline strike, booking well in advance with a travel agent
pays. Travel agents can help you explore all your options,
be it an alternative flight or departure from a different
airport or on a different airline. Travel agent services are
an invaluable resource to have on your side.
Buy travel insurance. Some
policies cover strikes, but be sure to get all the details,
such as whether any airlines are exempt or what the amount
covered is, from the insurance company.
Ask your travel agency about your
options. Air travelers already booked on a flight with
a potential striking airlines should talk with their travel
agent to determine what other travel options exist. Unfortunately,
"re-accommodation" procedures with other airlines
are only worked out in the final days or hours prior to a
pending labor disruption. A travel professional can help you
sort through your options.
If you have a cell phone, carry it. If your flight is cancelled at the last moment, you’re only a phone call away from the assistance your travel agent can provide. It can be a long haul to the nearest pay phone.
Request a paper ticket from the start. This may run contrary to the current trend toward e-tickets,
but it’s sage advice. If an airline strike is called,
some airlines may offer to "re-accommodate" you,
but to do so you will first need a paper ticket. By ordering
a paper ticket in advance you can avoid waiting in long lines
at the airport to have your e-ticket converted to paper.
Pack your own snacks and water. It might seem like one more thing to carry, but if you are faced with a long wait in line or are trapped in the airport waiting for a delayed flight, having your own supply of water and unsalted snacks may make all the difference.
Need something special? If
any special services are needed, a consumer’s best bet
may be to choose another airline. (Stretchers, oxygen and
pets count as special services.)
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