What to Do When My Flight Is Cancelled? A Guide for Passengers Who Find Themselves Stranded
A flight cancellation is always a frustrating experience, especially when it happens without advance notice. In times of security tension or war, the chance of flights being cancelled rises significantly due to security restrictions and international decisions, so it’s important to be prepared for every scenario. In this article we’ll review all the steps and tips for dealing with a flight cancellation in this complex period.
Why Are Flights Cancelled at All?
Flights are cancelled for various reasons – severe weather, technical faults in the aircraft, sometimes worker strikes, and sometimes even a sensitive security situation. In times of security tension or war, foreign airlines tend to stop operating in countries where there’s a risk, such as Israel. The reasons vary – from concern for the safety of aircraft and passengers to policies adopted by foreign governments recommending avoiding flights to countries in conflict zones.
Why Book with an Israeli Airline During Wartime?
In wartime or times of security tension, there’s an advantage to booking flight tickets through an Israeli airline, for many reasons:
- Continued operations even in difficult times – Israeli airlines, such as El Al, Arkia and Israir, are committed to continuing to operate as far as possible, in line with safety guidelines and their technical capabilities. So even if foreign airlines stop operating in Israel, there’s a high chance that Israeli airlines will continue to offer flights to those who need them.
- Customer service available in Hebrew – contacting the customer service of Israeli airlines gives you answers in Hebrew with a deep understanding of the Israeli situation. If a flight is cancelled, you’ll get help and support from local staff who know the situation and tailor solutions to your special needs.
- Shorter waiting times and faster resolution – unlike foreign airlines, Israeli airlines usually have access to more local resources, which can shorten waiting times for an alternative flight and make resolving the problem more efficient and faster.
- Flexible compensation options – Israeli airlines tend to offer more flexible terms to Israeli customers in emergencies, including the option to postpone the flight to another date or a faster refund than is customary with foreign airlines.
What Do You Do Immediately After the Cancellation Notice?
- Contact the airline immediately First, go to the airline’s counter or call their customer service. In most cases, they’ll try to offer you an alternative flight. In times of security tension, the wait may be longer, so it’s recommended to also contact them via digital customer service channels if available.
- Check eligibility for compensation and a refund When a flight is cancelled due to the security situation, monetary compensation isn’t always due, since it’s a case of force majeure. However, many airlines will offer greater flexibility, such as postponement at no extra cost, a partial refund, or using the ticket for a future flight.
- Alternative flight options If an alternative flight from the airline isn’t available soon, you can check options with other airlines or even flights from nearby destinations. With foreign airlines, you may have to wait a long time until they resume operations to Israel.
Preparing in Advance: What to Check When Booking a Flight During Security Tension
To avoid stressful situations and maintain maximum flexibility, make sure when booking a flight that you’re aware of the airline’s cancellation policy. Many airlines today offer more flexible tickets that allow postponement or date changes at no extra cost. It’s also important to check accommodation and transport options in case you have to wait for an alternative flight.
At Flight Hunter, all holiday packages, ski trips and organized tours come with full responsibility and a full refund if the flight is cancelled for any reason.
