There’s a wise and informative thread started by Canarsie in Atlanta suggesting we post storm-related updates from our hometown and airport. The posts probably represent the most up-to-date weather reports out there related to Sandy’s impact on aviation.
Here are some comments from Scott McCartney writing in The Wall Street Journal suggesting what “grounded travelers can – and can’t do”. Most high-flying FT members already know this and probably can add plenty to Scott’s report.
Nonetheless, here’s what the WSJ is suggesting:
- options are limited, airlines have moved equipment away from the storm
- penalties for changing reservations have been waived, but tickets must be rebooked by Nov. 4
- if flights are cancelled, expect a full refund (you don’t have to accept a credit, demand a refund)
- expect most operations to be suspended on the East Coast (mid-Atlantic to Boston – at least) today and tomorrow (Canarsie’s thread is on top of this)
- some international flights bound for the U.S. are giving passengers a chance to rebook
- if stranded, keep your hotel room, which should be no problem since new guests are not getting in
- communicate with airlines via their websites rather than jammed phone lines
- when it comes to rebooking the early callers will get the seats; the many cancellations of other passengers work in your favor
- be realistic, airlines take time to sort themselves out after a storm like Sandy
- the higher your status, the better chance of a seat when rebooking
- if you haven’t left home, don’t head out looking to fight the storm (we’re road warriors, not storm warriors)
- “this is a time not to travel”