We've all experienced it: the chaos of finding out that our flight is delayed and we will miss part of our long-awaited holiday as a result. Delays may seem out of our control, and they are in many respects, although as passengers there is much we can do to prevent delays during our trip away.
While we cannot control the weather or mechanical issues during our trip, we can book our airline tickets strategically, avoid peak travel times, and ensure we are prepared.
Here's how you can do your best to avoid flight delays on your next trip:
1. Avoid peak travel times during your trip
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Most airports have less traffic on Tuesdays and Wednesdays than they do at the start or end of a week. As a result, if you travel midweek there will be less chance of getting stuck in runway or air traffic. Also, if you are on a full flight, there is a higher chance that another passenger will hold up the flight and cause delays to your trip (see Step 5 to avoid being this person). If possible, you should avoid flying during notoriously busy travel periods. The Christmas and New Year holiday period, school summer holidays, and other regional holidays will all contribute to a higher chance of your trip being delayed.
2. When possible, book "non-stop" flights for your trip
If your flight makes a stop, or you need to rely on a connecting flight to get to your destination on time, there is much greater chance of delay to your trip. Remember that a flight listed as "direct" is not "non-stop". Such flights stop en route, but continue on with the same flight number afterwards. In the event of severe travel disruptions, even a direct flight may have a portion of the route cancelled.
3. Avoid tight connections
It is far better to allocate excess time for your connection than too little. Knowing that you have time to spare will help reduce your stress levels during your trip, particularly in the case of unexpected delays, and make the journey a more enjoyable experience.
4. Find out the size of the airport you're travelling from or through
It takes a long time to get across certain airports, and airlines do not usually consider the needs of connecting passengers when assigning gates to flights. Therefore, plan for the longest walk to your gate. Flying in and out of major international airports, such as LAX in Los Angeles, also increases the chance of delays. A smaller airport, such as Burbank in Los Angeles, may be the better choice for your trip.
5. Respect baggage limitations and restrictions
If you pack too much or include restricted items in your baggage, you are at a high chance of holding up your own flight. Check your airline website for how much luggage you are permitted on your trip, both in suitcases and hold bags, and pack accordingly. Make sure you also check your national regulations on sharp objects, liquids, alcohol and other restricted goods. While waiting in line at security, it may also help to take off your shoes, coat and metal accessories (especially belts). Also keep your identification and boarding pass in a safe and accessible place.
6. Check the status of your flight regularly
You can often check the status of your flight online, which will help you become aware of delays to your trip early. An increasing number of airlines are also enabling passengers to check-in online before departure, which reduces time spent queuing at the airport. 7. Pack snacks and a good book for your trip If you have followed all the above steps and still find yourself facing delays during your trip, be prepared for it. Pack snacks and a way to keep entertained, be it a good book, game, or electronic device. This will help you to deal with any delays in a calm and collected manner.
The time and day of travelling, alongside where you fly from and to, can all lead to delays. However, as a prepared passenger you can stay calm, organised and prepared by following the steps listed above. Pack your bags carefully, plan the time needed to reach your connection, and check the status of your flight if possible. Delays are always stressful, but you can minimise the negative affect that they have on your trip by planning accordingly.
