Problems not airline specific - tips for a happy trip
As someone who flies up to 50 weeks a year. Just a few things to keep in mind.
While you may hear about bad experiences with a specific airline, realize that all airlines have similar problems.
The larger the airline, the more likely you are to find someone with a bad experience. However, larger airlines also tend to have more options when there is a problem.
The further you make reservations in advance, the more likely it is that things will change. Airlines change routes based on passenger volume usually on a quarterly basis, so a flight booked more than 3 months out is at higher risk. This will affect regional airports more than major hubs. Flight times are also adjusted to minimize late departures/arrivals while maximizing aircraft utilization, the schedules are always being tweaked. The actual aircraft could change up to the time of departure for maintenance or schedule issues. Usually similar aircraft are used, but even the same model aircraft can have different seating configurations. This can lead to a big game of musical chairs were not everyone can get a seat.
You might not want to hear it, but there is a passenger pecking order that all airlines use. While the formula may be slightly different, it is usually based on the price of the ticket, frequent flyer status, and impact on rest of itinerary. So if you rarely fly, buy at deep discounted prices, and have a direct flight, you are more likely to be impacted by changes.
When you have a problem, the person you are talking to, 99.9% of the time had no involvement in the issue, they are just the ones who have to deal with it. Keep this in mind. Show compassion to the person, keep a sense of humor about the situation, and keep an open mind to alternatives. I can’t tell you how many times I have made it on a flight because I was polite to the agent, when the other guy was throwing a fit.
When there is a change, be proactive and seek your own alternatives first. It is much easier if you research what other flights are available and might work best with your schedule before you talk to the airline. What is more important to you, departure time (what time can you get to the airport), arrival time (plans at destination), or total trip time (minimize time on aircraft for little ones)? If you know what you want/need, then it’s easier for an agent to accommodate you.
Stick with one airline. While you might save money buying tickets on different airlines (often proposed by travel websites), this is a bad idea. If it’s all on the same airline, they are responsible for getting you to your destination. If your first flight is delayed and you miss a connection on another airline, you are stuck making alternative arrangements. Note, “code share” flights are okay. This is when you book your flights with one airline, but one or more segments are actually on another airline.
Lastly, avoid making travel arrangements that are critical to your itinerary. The schedule for the days you travel in or out of a destination should be flexible. It is great if you can spend a half day at the parks the day you arrive, but it is no big deal if you get in late. Don’t book some big non-refundable event the day of arrival or have to be back home in time to make the closing on your new house. Murphy’s Law should always be assumed to apply.
The moral of the story…change is almost inevitable. Make your plans with this in mind, be flexible when there is a problem, and your attitude can go a long way towards reaching a happy resolution.
