As business travelers already know, getting stuck at the airport is easily the worst possible scenario when out on the road. Oftentimes, one slight delay leads to a domino effect that can then turn into a giant mess of missed connections, over night hotel stays in cities you might otherwise never step foot in, and a myriad of other nightmarish conditions that can simply ruin a trip. Most travelers feel like they have no recourse when it comes to being at the mercy of an airline, but there are multiple options for disgruntled travelers to pursue.

Stranded In JFK

According to Kane Hanni, found of FlyersRights.org, there are a few preliminary steps passengers can take to help determine whether they have a valid complaint and just what they can expect to receive for it. In a recent NY Times article, Hanni warns that if the delay was due to a force out of the airlines control (i.e. weather) then they are not liable to you for anything.

“But if it’s something within their control, like malfunctioning toilets or a lack of crew, then legally they owe you taxi vouchers, food and hotels and a refund of the unused portion of your ticket if you decide you’re not going to continue with the flight.”

If you’ve ever suffered an airline-related set back, you know that the airline will generally offer compensation to travelers in the form of free miles, drink tickets, or discount vouchers. While this seems satisfactory in some cases, others necessitate further action. While some passengers may suffer only a minor inconvenience at the hand of the airline, your delay may have caused you to miss a connecting flight later that day, which then leads to a missed hotel room check-in, meeting cancellation, etc. In these cases, seeking further monetary compensation is recommended.

Hanni encourages seriously disgruntled passengers to file a complaint with the Department of Transportation.

“Airlines hate it when a complaint is filed with the D.O.T. — they will investigate and most likely rule in favor of the passenger”.

While this has worked for many, its certainly not a guaranteed way to score some bonus funds, especially if one chooses to pursue the matter in small claims court. In the Times article, one unlucky passenger filed a lawsuit after his flight caused him to miss out on a prized speaking opportunity at a conference but was rewarded with nothing but a refunded ticket and a voucher for a flight “on the the one carrier in the world that I will never fly again”. Bummer.

PC Housing feels your pain, however, and while we do hope your travels will be smooth and worry-free we know that if the situation arises where you’re forced to arrive to one of our furnished apartments or corporate suites a bit later than planned, that you will find it full of all the comforts of home. Once you’re here, you’ll forget all about those 4 extra hours sitting on the runway waiting for takeoff!

Image: NYDailyNews